LEED Gold

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

  • A reflective, white roof is an "Energy Star" roof designed to minimize the heat island effect of traditional roofs by reflecting radiant heat energy back into the atmosphere.
  • The green roof absorbs radiant energy keeping the building cool.
  • Windows in the athletic center harvest daylight while minimizing heat transfer.
  • The cooling tower evaporates captured rainwater, which then passes through a compressor much like a refrigerator to cool the building.
  • The high efficiency boiler (96% efficient) heats the building and provides hot water for the sinks and showers, so no hot water heater is needed.
  • CO2 sensors in the gym control the amount of outside air being brought in by the ventilation system and thus save energy.
  • Energy efficient windows allow daylight to enter the building so less electricity is used for lighting.

WATER EFFICIENCY

  • The green roof is planted with special grasses and sedum that absorb water, filter pollutants and reduce storm water runoff.
  • The white roof is designed to capture rainwater, channel it into a 10,000 gallon cistern, and use the rainwater in the building’s cooling tower to reduce the use of city water.
  • Low flow fixtures are found throughout the building in the showers, toilets and sinks.
  • Under the turf playing fields are large 8 ft. diameter cisterns for storing storm water.
  • From the playing fields and north parking lot, the storm water runs off into large cisterns under the turf field where it is stored and slowly trickles into the groundwater.
  • Native  plantings are used around the Athletic Complex reducing the need to irrigate, saving water.

MATERIALS AND RESOURCES

By using local materials, reused materials and recycled materials, the Athletic Complex design reduces the amount of energy and natural resources used in transportation and manufacturing.

  • Several rooms in the Athletic Complex have floors made from the floor of the old gym.
  • The cabinetry is made from FSC certified wood, harvested locally.
  • Countertops are made from recycled paper products.
  • Recycled material was used in the steel (biggest component of recycled materials), carpet, linoleum, ceiling tiles, and the rubber mat on the running track.
  • All paint, caulking and adhesives used in the building have low VOC levels(volatile organic compounds).
  • Recycled steel beams are a prominent feature of the athletic complex.