NAVFAC Washington-Built Facility at Patuxent River Gets LEED Gold Certification

By James Johnson, Naval Facilities Engineering Command-Washington Public Affairs

PATUXENT RIVER, Md. (NNS) -- The Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) Aircraft Flight Test & Evaluation Facility at Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC), Washington, was recognized Feb. 22 by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold-certified.

The facility scored 39 (out of a possible 69) points to earn the certification. It is the second LEED Gold-certified facility built by NAVFAC Washington and the first at Naval Air Station, Patuxent River.

"I have some pride knowing that this is the first LEED Gold building on this base," said Capt. Stephen Schmeiser, commanding officer, NAS Paxutent River. "We will do more like this."

On behalf of NAVAIR, Conrad White, deputy platform coordinator for the E-2C/C2 mission, accepted a large glass LEED Gold certification plaque issued by the USGBC.

Tom Cox, chief engineer, NAVFAC Washington, also spoke at the event, listing water efficient landscaping, optimized energy performance, and the use of locally procured and recycled materials as big factors in the achievement. The building also features a white-top roof which reflects heat, and 90 percent of the working space is infused by sunlight.

The LEED system promotes design and construction practices that improve the impact of buildings on the environment and their occupants. NAVFAC is dedicated to seeking ways to increase energy efficiency and support the U.S. Navy as they strive to become a leader in environmental responsibility.

For more news from Naval Facilities Engineering Command, visit www.navy.mil/local/navfachq/.