Lehman College Science Hall has earned LEED Platinum certification, the highest available rating a facility can achieve, from the United States Green Building Council (USGBC).

“We recognize the importance of this facility to the College and its dedication to the advancement of science and technology," says Bill Gilbane III, vice president. "All of us at Gilbane are proud to share in this LEED Platinum achievement. This new facility puts the Lehman College campus at the forefront of science research, education, and innovation in the academic environment.”

The building earned platinum status for an array of environmentally sustainable technologies, such as a rainwater/greywater system to clean and re-circulate water for use in restroom flushing fixtures and rooftop solar panels to heat the building’s water. It is also equipped with a rooftop teaching and research greenhouse. In addition, 86% of demolition and construction waste to-date was diverted from landfills.

“This project and its Platinum rating reflects Lehman College’s commitment to a culture of environmental responsibility, and the creation and adoption of clean energy innovations on campus and throughout New York City,” says President Ricardo R. Fernández. “Science Hall and its potential represent the best of what public higher education can achieve for our society.”

Linked by a multi-story glass atrium, the 69,000 SF building is built around a core lab support spaces, faculty offices, and seminar rooms. The building is designed to promote collaboration and interaction among scientific disciplines, students, faculty, and researchers and to increase undergraduate engagement with current research projects.

In addition to advanced energy savings, water savings and installation of environmentally-friendly building materials, the design and construction practices that shaped the new facility will provide a healthier learning and working environment for future building occupants. The state-of-the-art facility was designed by architectural firm Perkins+Will and built by the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY). Construction was led by Gilbane Building Company, general contractor Calcedo Construction, B&G Electric, Aspro Plumbing, and BP Mechanical.

“This building fundamentally validates the notion that achieving LEED Platinum certification is possible on a modest institutional budget,” says Breeze Glazer, research knowledge manager, LEED AP with Perkins+Will. “With an experienced design and construction team and a dedicated owner, LEED Platinum proved to be a near cost neutral effort that will benefit CUNY throughout the lifecycle of the building.”

Science Hall was dedicated in October 2012 and hosted its first classes in the spring semester of 2013. With more than 60,000 alumni and 12,000 students, Lehman College serves the Bronx and the surrounding region.