Awarded LEED Platinum for New Construction| July 2018
Photovoltaic (solar) panels were installed as a pergola on the south facing rooftop garden, creating renewable solar energy for Austin's New Central Library, as well as provide shade for visitors to study, work, and enjoy the views of Lady Bird Lake.
The decrease in energy usage decreases cost. Onsite renewable energy through use of solar panels on the rooftop garden further aids in reducing the amount of purchased electricity. Air conditioning system uses district supplied chilled water cooling which is more efficient than using an on-site chiller. Demand controlled ventilation, under-floor air delivery, daylight harvesting, outdoor air economizer, etc.
Recycling is a major way to reduce construction waste. 100% of on-site asphalt was reused in this project. A primary goal was that at least 75% of the "waste" materials produced shall be reused or recycled in order to minimize construction waste in landfills. Upon generation of waste, there will be designated dumpsters on the construction site with signs for respective materials to be received and recycled.
Regional materials are an important component to reducing a building's carbon footprint. 29% of the materials used to build the kennel addition at Austin Animal Center consist of regional materials, which reduce transportation costs and subsequently carbon emissions. Furthermore, 16% of the cost to build the kennel addition uses recycled materials.
Austin Animal Center is located due east of downtown, conveniently located on the intersection of Airport Boulevard and HWY 183. Three bus routes serve the nearby areas.
is located in a high traffic area in the heart of the city with many pedestrian friendly points of access. The projects 65 bicycle stalls and vicinity to public transportation both promote alternative methods of travel.
There are 3 Capital Metro lines within 1/4 mile of the building.
4 credits for Low-Emitting Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) content
Reduction of volatile organic compounds in all categories of indoor material use is an important aspect to improving the experience of the occupants. Deck-to-deck partitions between chemical usage areas further maintain indoor air quality, and zones of occupancy controls maximize thermal comfort rates for daily users.
A Closer Look at VOC Content