10/21/2011
The Public Building Commission of Chicago (PBC) participated in the Chicago Architecture Foundation’s first annual openhousechicago 2011 (OHC) event last weekend. This free event featured more than 100 sites of architectural interest in 15 communities throughout Chicago, a city world-renowned for its outstanding architecture. Key themes for OHC 2011 included community and sustainability.
More than 100 visitors toured the new Little Village Library and the new Engine Company 109 recently developed by the PBC in the Little Village neighborhood. Both facilities are designed to achieve LEED Silver certification from the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). These new municipal facilities are located on a unique campus site where the PBC was able to implement a wellfield geothermal system shared by these two facilities. The shared geothermal system will allow both facilities to minimize operating costs and also minimize the drain on our natural resources.
Other sustainable features include permeable paver parking lots for stormwater infiltration and management; native and adaptive landscaping, a green and reflective roof to combat the urban heat island effect. Materials were selected for durability and ease of maintenance, as well as with a consideration for the use of materials produced regionally.
The Public Building Commission of Chicago manages construction and renovation projects for the City of Chicago and its sister agencies. Mayor Rahm Emanuel serves as the PBC’s chairman. Erin Lavin Cabonargi serves as the Executive Director of the PBC. Additional information about the PBC and its projects can be found at www.pbcchicago.com.
