Pasadena officials on Tuesday declared victory on Measure PL, a $195 million general obligation bond to retrofit the city’s century-old Central Library.

While acknowledging that not all votes are in, city officials thanked Pasadena voters for approving Measure PL, which has cleared the two-thirds majority required for passage.

Measure PL has continued to maintain solid support, garnering around 72% of “yes” votes and nearly 28% “no” votes, according to the seventh post-election night results released by the Los Angeles County Registrar’s Office at 4:35 p.m. Tuesday.

This latest update includes an additional 52,392 ballots processed since election night, bringing the total count to nearly 3.7 million, which represents around 64% of registered voters, according to the registrar’s office.

The bond will be used to provide the necessary earthquake retrofit and repairs to reopen the historic Central Library, which has been closed since May 2021. The bond will levy property owners up to $28.90 per $100,000 of assessed property value annually for over 30 years to cover its costs.

The secured funding keeps the project on track, city officials said. They anticipate completing the bidding process, construction documents and contract award by summer 2025.

Construction, which will begin after contract award, is expected to last 30-36 months, with the library scheduled to reopen to the public in 2028.

In statements, city officials expressed excitement about the measure’s passage.

“Pasadena’s Central Library is a landmark and a lifeline for our community, offering educational, cultural, and historical value,” Mayor Victor Gordo said.

With Measure PL, the community is investing in the library’s future and ensuring that it stays a safe and inviting place for future generations, he said.

“The voters’ overwhelming support for this measure is a powerful reflection of the community’s commitment to preserving and strengthening our libraries, which play an essential role in fostering learning, connection, and opportunity for all,” Gordo added.

Councilmember Justin Jones called Measure PL’s passage “a significant step forward for the community.”

“Central Library connects us through access to knowledge, resources, and programs,” he said. “Thanks to Measure PL, we’ll see it continue to serve Pasadena, providing opportunities for growth and learning in a resilient, updated space.”

City Manager Miguel Márquez said the community’s support for Measure PL highlights its dedication to preserving a vital city institution.

“Our residents have shown their commitment to preserving and strengthening a cornerstone of our city,” he said. “Measure PL allows us to safeguard the Central Library, honoring its historic roots while equipping it to serve Pasadena’s youth and all generations, providing a gateway to future opportunities and lifelong learning.”

Library Director Tim McDonald extended his appreciation to the community for their support.

“We are grateful to our residents who appreciate the value, history, and opportunity that Central Library represents,” he said. “Central Library is not just a building; it’s a hub of learning that provides free access to resources for all members of the community. We are committed to reopening this vital institution and protecting it for the next 100 years and beyond.”