No, these are not the official team colors, so you won’t have to go out and buy new jerseys, hats and other gear. It’s more a state of mind and, well, construction. To the casual observer, the $611 million facility’s stunning glass, steel and concrete architecture doesn’t shout “I’m better!”, but it is.
The new home of the Washington Nationals is the first baseball park to obtain Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. LEED silver certification, although not the highest level of the program, is a huge achievement for a sports facility and this is the first such certification for any sports facility. Some said it couldn’t be done. Designing and erecting an uncovered sports venue that operates efficiently with minimal environmental impact was a dream. Now it is a reality.
All aspects of construction, including the site where the park was built, contributed to its ability to obtain LEED certification. Locating the site adjacent to public transportation is one element. Another element with multiple benefits is the 6,300 sq. ft. “green roof” garden that's been planted over the concession area. In addition to the climate control contribution and rainwater collection, it’s aesthetically pleasing. These elements add to the energy- and resource-saving features you expect to find, like high efficiency lighting and low-flow plumbing fixtures.
Recycling plays an important role as well. 95% recycled steel was utilized in the construction, and the 5,500 tons of construction waste did not end up in a landfill. The construction process has been green in and of itself. The ballpark will continue this mission by recycling more than 25% of the trash patrons discard during events. Most amazing is that the facility has achieved LEED Silver status with only a 2% increase in basic construction cost. That fact is really making an impact by showing the sports world that efficient, green facilities CAN be developed without significantly increasing cost.
