LCRA has received LEED® Gold certification for Redbud Center, the new energy- and water-efficient building that serves as headquarters for managing the lower Colorado River. The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System™ is the national benchmark for the design, construction, and operation of high-performance green buildings.
Redbud Center and its grounds at 3601 Lake Austin Blvd. were noted for water efficiency. Compared to other office buildings its size, Redbud Center uses 81 percent less water in the building and 78 percent less water for landscape irrigation. The rainwater harvesting system captures rain and air-conditioning condensate – up to 250,000 gallons a year – for use as toilet flush water and some drip irrigation. Zonal irrigation technology reduces landscape water use.
Here are examples of other LEED achievements:
- Sustainable sites: Stormwater management system filters runoff before it enters Lady Bird Lake. Light-colored concrete paving reflects heat better than dark asphalt.
- Materials and resources: 82 percent of construction waste was recycled. Reduced carbon footprint by shipping more than 50 percent of materials from within 500 miles of the site.
- Indoor air quality: Materials used in construction release fewer and less harmful contaminants than comparable materials. Carbon dioxide sensors control ventilation.
- Innovation and design: Outdoor learning center features interactive models of the Highland Lakes and dams and other exhibits that teach conservation techniques and good stewardship of the river and its watershed.
The Austin Energy Green Building program gave Redbud Center a Four Star rating for sustainable design elements, including energy efficiency. The building orientation, daylight harvesting and other systems result in 32 percent savings in energy use.
The outdoor learning center, The Wilkerson Center for Colorado River Education, is open to the public from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. To book a group tour, call (512) 473-3535.
