PHOENIX, Ariz. — Wespac Construction, Inc. proudly announces that the Rio Yards office shell building has been awarded LEED Silver Certification by the USGBC. This recognition highlights our commitment to sustainable building practices and creating high-performance, environmentally friendly spaces.
Located within the technology-focused Novus Innovation Corridor in Tempe, Arizona, Rio Yards, 1337 E. Rio Salado Parkway, is a three-story, 157,000 SF office building with key sustainability features. They include:
♦️ Building orientation and landscaping: Rio Yards’ orientation and native landscaping elements enhance the connection to outdoor spaces, featuring trees along pedestrian corridors, landscape buffers, and various seating options. These features create a welcoming environment and promote low water-use plant material, saving thousands of gallons of water annually.
♦️ High-performance building strategies: The building systems are designed to be environmentally responsible, avoiding the use of chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) based refrigerants.
♦️ Transportation accessibility: Rio Yards promotes alternative transportation methods through its proximity to bus and rail routes, secure on-site bike storage, and electric vehicle charging stations.
♦️ Cool roof strategies: To minimize the urban heat island effect, cool roof strategies have been incorporated, contributing to a more comfortable and sustainable urban microclimate.
♦️ Premium materials: The project utilized premium materials with Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), ensuring compliance with current sustainability standards.
♦️ Lighting and rainwater management: All exterior lighting meets dark sky requirements, reducing light pollution, while 90 percent of rainwater is managed onsite, further emphasizing the building’s sustainable design.
“Achieving LEED Silver Certification for Rio Yards is a significant milestone for Wespac Construction Inc. and a testament to our dedication to sustainable construction,” said Glenn Leier, Principal/Vice President at Wespac Construction, Inc. “This award highlights our efforts to not only build a cutting-edge office space but also to prioritize environmental responsibility in every aspect of the project.”
The certification of this project was a collaborative effort. Wespac Construction Inc., extends its appreciation to all partners involved. Key contributors include RSP Architects, Wentworth Property Management, and LEED Consultant – GreenIdeas.
The interior of Rio Yards, 1337 E. Rio Salado Parkway, in Tempe, Arizona.
About Wespac
Established in 1991, Wespac Construction Inc. is a general contracting and construction management firm, offering pre-construction and construction services in various market sectors. From small tenant improvement projects to large shell and master-planned communities, Wespac is a true partner to our clients throughout the entire project lifecycle. We pursue the art of construction, while contributing knowledge, leadership, passion, and commitment to every employee, client, and project team. Wespac has offices in Phoenix and Flagstaff, Arizona. For more information visit www.wespacaz.com.
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