Nov. 24, 2020 GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Grand Rapids Community College’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its newest construction project through a 10,000-square-foot green roof on the Wisner-Bottrall Applied Technology Center expansion.
The recently completed green roof sits atop the two-story, 18,416-square-foot expansion of the ATC, which was part of the project that included extensive renovations in other parts of the building.
“Infrastructure and sustainability are strategic goals for our campus, and we always are looking for opportunities to be better stewards of our environment,” said Jim VanDokkumburg, GRCC’s executive director of facilities.
“Green roofs help with sustainability in many ways, including stormwater management, extending roof life cycle, improving acoustics and thermal insulation, creating habitat, and decreasing urban heat island effect.”
Sedum was planted on the roof. It is a hearty species that does well in all West Michigan’s weather conditions, and can thrive in relatively shallow soil, such as on green roofs.
The new roof is near the ATC’s existing 35,000-square green roof, which was added in 2008 with support from the Steelcase Foundation. That roof is accessible from the ATC’s second floor study area, with an outdoor deck for students to get a closer view.
Buildings typically have black or light-colored roofs. Black roofs absorb heat while white roofs reflect the sun. Green roofs are designed to soak up ultraviolet light without the heat, allowing for more temperature control.
The $12.7 million ATC project is designed to provide a teaching and learning environment supporting learning and experiential problem-solving while providing greater visibility for workforce training and information technology programs.
The ATC project includes:
- Improving the flexibility and use of existing classrooms and labs.
- Creating an open and inviting front entry.
- Adding a Data Center Lab suite.
- Expanding and updating the Machine Tool Lab.
- Increasing student study and meeting spaces.
- Providing small project rooms where students can work together.
- Adding interaction areas where faculty, students, and researchers can gather informally.
- Renovating the open computer lab.
The project is expected to be completed in December and be ready for winter 2021 classes.
GRCC has a Sustainability Team, and other campus efforts include “zero waste” events, where all materials used - such as utensils, plates, napkins, cups and food – are completely recyclable, reusable or compostable. GRCC staff make it easier for participants to compost or recycle the materials, with plentiful and clearly marked bins and staff available to remind users how to dispose of materials.
Several buildings on campus have earned Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification, which is a national standard established by the U.S. Green Building Council.
Grand Rapids Community College offers learners of all ages opportunities to gain credits for degrees or transfer and in-demand career skills leading to rewarding careers. GRCC was established in 1914 – Michigan’s first community college -- and offers affordable classes on weekdays, evenings, Saturdays and online at locations throughout Kent and Ottawa counties.