A $618 million program tripling the size of the previously existing 302,000 SF Civic Plaza and renovating the existing spaces including the 2,600-seat Symphony Hall. The project also includes the coordination of the efforts with the City’s adjacent Light Rail project.

The West Building, which opened in June 2006, was designed by Leo A. Daly and HOK to achieve LEED certification for energy use, lighting, water and material use as well as incorporating a variety of other sustainable strategies. The project was awarded LEED Silver certification in 2008 and includes:

• High efficiency irrigation which reduces potable water consumption for irrigation by 56%
• The use of low flow toilets, urinals and water closets resulting in a 42% water use reduction
• The use of low VOC paints and materials
• Dramatic reduction of the building’s energy consumption through the use of mechanical and electrical equipment
• A recycling program including the collection of paper, plastic, cardboard and glass materials with receptacles throughout the facility
• Location next to public transportation which not only reduces traffic, but minimizes vehicle emissions in the environment
• Reduction in contributing to heat island effect by placing 100% of the building’s parking underground and using Energy Star-compliant roofing materials
• Materials from the demolition of the former Civic Plaza were recycled and over 50% of new West Building construction materials were manufactured within 500 miles which reduces fuel usage and bolsters growth in the local economy.