Page 230 -

201
C h a p t e r 1 0 : h a p t e r 1 0 :
C O O t h e r O r g a n i z a t i o n s t h e r O r g a n i z a t i o n s 201

University Center Quick Facts
The University Center has a number of efficient systems in place. It’s a testament to how
ecologically friendly technologies are changing.
“The technologies we had to fight for 5 years ago are run of the mill now,” observed Cain.
Some of the building’s features include:

• Materials from the deconstruction of the Ames Education Building, the previous
building on the site, were reclaimed, reused, and recycled as much as possible by
the demolition and salvage firm.
• Stone benches, metal tables and supports, and the Cup of Knowledge sculpture and
support beam in the Heritage Hall of the University Center are elements reused
from Ames.
• Waste from the construction of the University Center was reclaimed, reused, and
recycled as much as possible by the general contractor.
• The roof rainwater collection system, mentioned earlier, will allow for filtered storage
of up to 48,000 gallons of water under the building to use for gray water purposes,
such as flushing toilets and exterior irrigation. This system will also drastically
reduce stormwater surges that would normally end up in the Kinnickinnic River.
Stormwater surges can deplete the amount of dissolved oxygen in the river, which
can cause trout mortality. With a 1-inch rainfall, more than 34,000 gallons can be
collected from the roof.
• The white roof is designed to reflect heat and decrease heat absorption into the
building, thus decreasing cooling costs in the summer.
• Low-E thermoglass in a deep mullion cap on the south side bank of windows is an
energy-saving measure.
• The efficient heat recovery system uses direct air exchangers.
• Photoelectric on/off lighting as well as motion lights and timers are connected with PART IV
the facility scheduling system.
• Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) in the lighting system use much less energy than
incandescent light bulbs or fluorescent lighting.
• An energy analysis determined that the building will be greater than 40 percent
more efficient than buildings of a similar size and usage.
• Water-efficient landscaping plans utilize native plants and grasses, and require no
freshwater for irrigation.
• The detention swale adjacent to the parking area retains and cools stormwater
before it enters the surrounding river system.
• Nontoxic, environmentally friendly cleaning products are used throughout
the building.
• A special pulp process for food service waste has been installed that uses less water
than traditional “garbage disposal” methods and provides the ability to complement
a food waste compost system planned for the future.