Heavener Football Complex receives LEED certification

It feels great to state that the latest addition to the University of Florida’s Ben Hill Griffin Stadium has been ranked as one of the most environmentally friendly buildings in the realm of the United States of America. It should be remembered that the entire development is epochal since Heavener Football Complex has received platinum certification from the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System, the highest ranking available. Besides this accomplishment has made Heavener Football Complex the first building in Florida and the first athletic facility in the nation to achieve platinum status. Keep in mind that there are only 130 platinum buildings in the US and 141 in the international arena.

What is the basis of LEED certification? Well, it is based on site/location planning, energy use, water management, materials used, indoor environmental quality and innovation in the design process. The success of Heavener Complex became apparent when it managed to earn the requisite 52 out of 69 possible points to receive a platinum rating.

In the Heavener Complex worth $28 million there is the good presence of offices, conference rooms, an atrium with trophies from the team’s national championships, and weight-training facilities. What is more the facility’s energy-saving features go beyond state and national standards requirements by 35 percent and consist of low-e glazing on glass, insulation and reflective materials, which make the heating and air conditioning systems more efficient. There is also the high presence of energy-efficient lighting and light sensors that enable individual lighting preferences and stop automatically as soon as the room gets empty. In addition, there is a system for canvassing future energy use in the facility. Light-colored roofing and concrete pavement on the plaza keep temperatures lower in and around the building.

Carol Walker, Assistant Vice President of the UF Facilities, Planning and Construction Division, said, “UF is committed to providing a healthy building and environment for the people who utilize the facility. Long-term sustainability, responsible use of environmental resources, and a healthy and productive work environment are all important.”