Sustainability in Action

Ralph Klein Park and the EEEC showcase sustainability and environmental stewardship. The Park and the EEEC were developed simultaneously with the constructed wetland environment, which was once a flat field.

To highlight the environmental benefits of responsible water, and create an inclusive relationship between the site, the EEEC and its users, the EEEC was developed as an island within the wetland, elevated above the water level and accessible only by two bridges. By association, the EEEC features a number of sustainable construction practices, building components and energy efficient operating systems.

RJC helped deliver this project to its acclaimed end result by:

• Developing a structural system that allowed the EEEC to be built above water level. To accommodate placement in the middle of the lake, our engineers designed a concrete sub-structure with bored piles transitioning into slender columns that rise to the main floor slab above the wetland.

• Working with the team to select the right materials to showcase sustainable design. Selecting wood and concrete as the primary structural materials promoted natural finishes and durable construction to contribute to the sustainability of the building and the Park.

• Responding to the building programming. In addition to the building being founded on submerged structure instead of on a traditional foundation, structural loads from accessible green roofs were accommodated for and special structures were disguised to support energy efficient building systems.

• Contributing to the EEEC’s sustainable design which is expected to achieve LEED Gold Certification. A minimum of 50% of the wood came from FSC certified sources and all wood used qualified for a regional material credit. Concrete was locally sourced, HVSCM was used in the concrete mixes and surplus concrete was returned to the plant for recycling.

• Providing the City with a durable facility on time and under budget. Durable structural materials were selected and efficient coordination of packages between the building and site works was instrumental in meeting project milestones.

The EEEC was delivered below the construction budget and is expected to achieve LEED Gold Certification. It has won two prestigious industry awards for sustainable design.