VIDALIA, La. &045; The renovation of the Vidalia branch of the Concordia Parish Library can move forward since the police jury approved the renovations Monday night.

Library Director Amanda Taylor said the renovations would not affect the old courthouse’s designation to the National Register of Historic Places because it was recognized for its historic value and not its architecture. However, Taylor did say the new portion, proposed at about 5,000 square feet, will match the existing faSade &uot;as well as we can do it.&uot;

&uot;We really wanted the permission, and we’ll start the work with the architect,&uot; Taylor said.

The project could take a couple of years, Taylor said, because just working with the architect could take at least one year.

The jury also approved permission for the library board to borrow money if needed. Juror Cathy Darden said the jury gave permission for the board to borrow on the Ferriday renovation, but the board never had to borrow any funds.

&uot;We’ve got a little more to go,&uot; Taylor said of acquiring all the money needed for the project and the board just asked for permission to borrow in case they needed to do so.

Taylor also reported the renovation could take one to three of the oak trees from the property but assured the jury the corner ones would stay.

A public hearing scheduled on the closure of Raymond Cowan Road was closed and not opened for discussion after jury Vice President Red Tiffee announced the road would remain open.