Mayor Phil Gordon and Councilman Claude Mattox today showcased the city's first building to earn the prestigious Gold Certification by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) in July 2008.

The 14,400-square-foot Glenrosa Service Center, 4155 W. Glenrosa Ave., houses field staff offices for multiple departments and meeting space.

The USGBC's Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification rating system is accepted nationally and around the world as the standard for certifying the adoption of sustainable green building practices.

"Phoenix was the first in Maricopa County to be awarded LEED Certification in 2003, but that was just the beginning. We went for the gold and continue to lead in sustainability with our first Gold Certification," said Gordon.

The Glenrosa Service Center meets high standards for site sustainability and uses cutting-edge technology to save water, energy and other resources.

"Phoenix is an environmental leader and a sustainability champion," said Mattox. "This facility demonstrates our commitment to environmental stewardship and shows how we can protect our precious desert environment."

The facility, which has been open since late 2005, features design elements to reduce water use including the selection of indigenous plants and water efficient fixtures that resulted in water use reduction of nearly 340,000 gallons annually.

Certified wood from responsible managed forests and low-volatile organic compounds carpet and paint used in the building not only protects precious resources, but increases indoor air-quality.

In addition, energy efficiency measures such as a heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system that utilizes a chiller, R-30 roofing insulation, highly-insulated concrete masonry wall system, operable skylights and dimmable light systems to reduce lighting loads and dual-pane windows were incorporated into the design.

Under floor air distribution systems increase efficiency of HVAC system by supplying air closer to users. Under floor air distribution systems create a healthful and productive environment and also offer greater control of environmental conditions.

The building is located in proximity to several bus lines in an effort to encourage employees to use mass transportation, reducing fuel consumption and pollution. Drivers of alternative fuel vehicles are provided with special designated parking.

During construction of the site, special efforts were made to reduce waste during construction by sorting and trucking scrap metal, cardboard, wood, fencing, gypsum board, asphalt and rock to local recycling facilities, successfully lessening the demand for raw materials. As a result, nearly 80 percent of construction waste was diverted from landfills.

In June 2005, the city council adopted a policy that, at a minimum, all new city buildings built with the 2006 Bond funds be constructed to the basic LEED standard. The city has four LEED certified facilities and six additional projects are LEED Registered.