The 1930-built Staatsburg School in Mills-Norrie State Park which was converted into energy-efficient regional headquarters is claimed to be the first public building in New York State to win LEED Platinum for new construction or major renovation projects.
Reuse of an existing building was a significant factor in reaching the platinum level certification. Other factors included a significant energy savings through a geothermal heat pump system to heat and cool the building; electricity-generating solar panel arrays, high energy-efficient windows, innovative insulation methods, and state-of-the-art efficient lighting.
Ventilation rates were increased and low VOC-emitting products like glues, paints and carpets were used to improve air quality. New materials such as carpet, demountable partitions, and ceilings made with a high percentage of recycled content, and other finishes with renewable materials such as cork were also employed.
Low-flow sinks, dual-flow toilets, and waterless urinals were installed to conserve water. Permeable pavement and parking as well as the removal of excessive site hardscape to reduce stormwater runoff was part of the refurbishment project.
The building now uses 70% less energy than the average office building in the Mid-Atlantic region. The project was designed by State Parks architectural and engineering staff, with consulting from Barton and Loguidice, P.C.
Construction of the Taconic Region’s new headquarters was supported by a $3 million funding from Waletzky and more than $128,000 in incentives from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) for the $7.9 million project.
State Parks was also awarded a NYSERDA High Performance Building Plaque in recognition of the energy-saving measures installed in the building. The new Taconic Region headquarters building is estimated to perform 53% above code and is New York’s 41st recipient of this award.
