State University of New York College at Oswego

This “fusion” building, combining student center functions and student recreation space including a 4,000-seat arena and ice rink, has an HVAC system with an integrated design that optimizes ventilation and energy performance.

New York State’s Executive Order No. 111 mandates that all newly constructed, publicly funded facilities must inspect and commission HVAC equipment to ensure optimal performance, following the guidelines set forth in the LEED rating system. In accordance with this environmental order, the arena’s mechanicals were designed to optimize energy conservation, resulting in an energy savings 20% greater than the levels mandated by the state’s energy conservation construction code. Carbon-dioxide-controlled ventilation, specified in lieu of constant ventilation, tailors the movement of air through the space proportionally to the number of occupants. The system also incorporates a premium-efficiency chiller and motors and gas-powered ice-rink dehumidifiers.

• Project was developed in area with existing infrastructure, protecting greenfields and natural habitats
• Campus is served by commuter bus lines
• Bicycle storage and on-site shower facilities encourage alternative transportation
• Site disturbance was reduced by protection and restoration of open space
• Development did not increase stormwater runoff
• Highly reflective roofing and paving materials reduce heat-island effect
• Low-cutoff exterior light fixtures avoid contributing to night-sky light pollution

• 40% of building materials are regionally manufactured, exceeding LEED standards
• Green building user-education program educates public about sustainable design
• Green operations and maintenance plan preserves indoor environmental quality
• Potable water usage was reduced by 44%, exceeding LEED standards

• Carbon dioxide monitoring system provides feedback on space ventilation performance
• HVAC system designed to increase ventilation effectiveness
• No-smoking policy and low VOC-content paints, carpets, adhesives, and sealants preserve indoor air quality
• Automated temperature/humidity monitoring system optimizes building conditions
• 90% of all occupied spaces have access to natural daylight and views
• Building air system filtered and flushed prior to occupancy
• Indoor air quality management plan implemented

• Construction waste was recycled/reused
• Building materials contain significant recycled content
• 20% of building materials are manufactured regionally
• Structural-steel system meets recycled-building-content targets

• Building systems commissioning verifies implementation and performance
• Insulated, low-E coated glass reduces energy costs
• Refrigeration and fire-suppression equipment is HCFC-free and halon-free
• University power purchased from renewable sources
• System performance optimization reduced energy costs by 20% above prerequisite standard
• High-efficiency light fixtures and lamps conserve electricity
• Naturally lit building interior reduces dependence on artificial lighting

• Elimination of permanent site irrigation system reduces potable water consumption
• Hardy and/or native vegetation minimizes irrigation requirements
• Lavatory sensors reduce potable water usage

• 4,000 seat convocation center and ice rink for college, athletic, and entertainment events
• Student organization offices
• Lounge and meeting rooms
• Food court
• Information support space