The Mead Valley Library became an asset to the fast-growing city of Perris despite threats to the project's funding. Gov. Jerry Brown (D) eliminated the redevelopment agency that was involved with the project, thereby creating an earlier-than-expected deadline to obtain funding. The team scrambled to achieve design consensus among all parties and accelerated the bidding process. Designed to feel like a large house, the 20,000-sq-ft, steel-framed library features community space, reading rooms and an outdoor amphitheater. Citizens of Perris embraced the library, with about 2,300 attending the grand opening.