School District of University City Will Go “Green” with Proposed Construction and Renovation Projects
District schools will be the first in St. Louis County to commit to LEED standards
UNIVERSITY CITY, MO., March 27, 2009 – New construction and renovation projects within the School District of University City that are being proposed under the Proposition U ballot initiative, will be designed to meet LEED environmental standards.
The LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) for Schools Rating System was established by the United States Green Building Council. It recognizes the unique nature of the design and construction of K-12 schools. The LEED rating system addresses issues such as energy and water efficiency, construction waste recycling, non-toxic construction materials, classroom acoustics, day lighting, and fresh air.
On April 7, University City residents will be asked to vote on Proposition U, a $53.6 million zero-tax-rate increase bond issue measure. Proposition U calls for the construction of two new elementary schools – Barbara Jordan and Pershing, to be built on their existing sites; as well as the renovations of and additions to Jackson Park and Flynn Park elementary schools, Brittany Woods Middle School and University City High School.
“Our goal is for the newly constructed elementary schools on the Barbara Jordan and Pershing sites to be certified LEED sustainable buildings,” said Art Bond, of Bond-Wolfe Architects. “The renovations that will occur at the other schools will be designed to meet LEED sustainable standards where achievable.”
He also said the new elementary schools and renovation projects will be among the first public schools in St. Louis County to have the LEED designation. Each building will reflect the character of the facilities that they will replace and be designed to be “contextually sensitive to the neighborhoods that surround them.” This includes reusing the tile mosaics which surround the drinking fountains at Pershing and Barbara Jordan schools and placing them in the new buildings.
On Thursday, April 2, from 5-8 p.m., the district will host an open house at its McNair Administration Building, 8136 Groby Rd., for residents to view architectural renderings of the proposed projects.
“This is an exciting time for the district,” said Joylynn L. Wilson, superintendent of schools. “Our desire to seek LEED certification on our building and renovation projects will ensure our students will have access to positive learning environments for many years.”
Additionally, LEED certified schools provide a number of benefits including increased, thermal comfort for students and staff, a healthier learning environment, increased attendance, enhanced productivity and savings in operational costs.
