University of the District of Columbia (UDC) New Student Center Solar Array

McKissack provided oversight of all construction activities, including tracking the general contractor’s performance in terms of consistency, cost, quality, and schedule. Specific responsibilities included creating and issuing weekly progress and tracking reports, reviewing building materials for compliance to the contract requirements, and reviewing and interpreting drawings, specifications, and shop drawings for completion. The mission of the student center is to build a strong sense of community by offering a wide variety of high-quality services, well-managed facilities, and educationally relevant programs to enhance student development and success. It offers student-focused spaces and community support areas. The new facility is the centerpiece of a 10-year master plan to complete campus-wide improvements of the Van Ness campus. The 86,500-SF LEED Platinum building combines 76,000-SF of new building including a 5,900-SF recreation center equipped with a gym with weights and other exercise equipment; Men’s and Women’s locker rooms with shower facilities; a separate multipurpose exercise room; and a 10,500-SF of addition and infill construction. Key design features of this national model of energy sustainability included 112 rooftop solar panel modules, each generating approximately 300 watts of clean electricity, with the solar cells generating up to 35 kilowatts of clean energy in total. Additional sustainable features included a 14,000-SF green roof, rain gardens, a geothermal system, and specialized water treatment systems.