Skanska's $104M Library Modernization: A Beacon of Sustainability

Swedish construction giant Skanska is set to modernize Johns Hopkins University's flagship library in Maryland, USA, in a project worth USD 104 million (SEK 1.1 billion). This significant investment aligns with Skanska's commitment to sustainable infrastructure and its roadmap for sustainability, as guided by the Envision™ rating system. The project, awarded Envision Platinum under version 3.0, is expected to create jobs, stimulate local economic growth, enhance educational opportunities, and contribute to the community's environmental goals.

The modernization project involves the construction of a new 12-story tower and the renovation of the existing 10-story building. This substantial undertaking is projected to create around 1,872 jobs, based on the Construction Industry Research Board's estimate that every $1 million spent on construction generates 18 jobs. Additionally, the project's supply chain will benefit local businesses, further boosting the local economy.

The improved library facilities will provide a safe, efficient, and sustainable learning environment for the university's 286,000 transit riders. The project's innovative biofiltration and infiltration basins, dry wells, and porous pavement treat and retain 6,396 cubic feet of rainfall, delivering a 149% water management improvement compared to predevelopment conditions. This sustainable design will not only benefit the university but also the broader community, fostering a greener and more resilient environment.

Skanska's commitment to sustainability is evident in the project's design and construction. The new terminal was designed with energy reduction in mind, requiring 19% less energy than conventional designs. Optimizing the design also reduced embodied carbon by 10%, and the project accounts for future sea level rise, making the terminal less vulnerable to storm surge. During demolition, 21,604 tons of concrete were recycled, with 2,500 tons reused on an adjacent jobsite.

The project's focus on community engagement and accessibility aligns with Skanska's triple bottom line approach. The Connect Committee, established by the project team, volunteers at local events throughout the year and has initiated dozens of community programs, such as classes that teach children the fundamentals of 3D virtual design. This aligns with Envision's 'Quality of Life' credit, which aims to improve community mobility and access.

In conclusion, Skanska's $104 million modernization project at Johns Hopkins University's flagship library in Maryland is a testament to the company's commitment to sustainable infrastructure and its positive impact on the local community. The project's focus on job creation, economic growth, educational opportunities, and environmental sustainability demonstrates Skanska's dedication to building what matters for future generations.