JACKSON — The Northampton Memorial Library renovation and addition project is well on its way.

On Monday, the Northampton County Board of Commissioners approved the plans and specifications for the Jackson project which will now go out for bid.

The project will add 2,596 square feet to the current library building, 18 new parking spaces and energy efficient features. Renovations will help the existing facility meet American with Disabilities Act requirements. The purchase of 18 new computers with accessories will be a part of the project.

County Manager Wayne Jenkins said the renovations and addition is estimated to cost $541,902.

“This project is fully funded with grant funds,” he said. “The Golden LEAF Foundation awarded a grant of $433,902 and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development awarded a grant of $108,000.”

The library’s plan and specifications were prepared by Architect Surapon Sujjavanich and reviewed by the Northampton County Memorial Library Board on November 8 with no revisions.

Jenkins noted USDA Rural Development regulations require the commissioners’ approval of the plans and specification before the project is placed out for bid.

He continued that upon board approval, advertising for bids is anticipated for December 16 with an anticipated start of construction date of January 11, 2011 and a completion target of June 20, 2011. Jenkins noted that the USDA Rural Development grant award term expires June 30, 2011.

Commission Vice Chair James Hester motioned to accept and approve the plans and specifications for the library project. Commissioner Robert Carter offered a seconded and the motion passed in a 4-0 vote with Commissioner Virginia Spruill absent from the meeting.