Kirksey EcoServices assisted TSTC and its project team during the design and construction of the South Texas Education Partnership’s Multi-Institution Teaching Center, after they decided to attempt LEED Certification.
The facilities department worked tirelessly with the design and construction teams to achieve this goal. The $7-million design-build project is slated to receive LEED-Gold certification because of the inclusion of many green features. One of the 'greenest' attributes occurred because TSTC petitioned the Lower Rio Grand Development council to extend two bus lines and add another bus stop, to give the site access to 2 lines.
In addition, a cool roof reflects sun’s heat, a detention pond minimizes storm water runoff from the site, low flow water closets, faucets, and ‘pint urinals’ significantly reduce water usage. The project has employed many energy saving devices, such as an energy recovery unit, efficient mechanical systems and highly efficient lighting. The building has been designed to be 38% more efficient than the energy code requires.
Finally, a solar panel array generates 106 kilowatts of electricity for the building. It is estimated that this will provide almost 20% of the buildings electricity.
Key Players Owner: Texas State Technical College, Harlingen, Texas General Contractor: SpawGlass Contractors, Harlingen, Texas Lead Design: ERO Architects, McAllen, Texas Civil: Halff Associates, McAllen, Texas Structural: Green, Rubiano & Assoc., Harlingen MEP: Halff Associates, McAllen, Texas LEED Consultant: Kirksey Architects, Houston Commissioning Agent: Cleary Zimmerman, San Antonio