PROVIDENCE – The Meeting Street School has become the first K-12 school in the state to be awarded LEED certification by the U.S. Green Building Council, the architects say.
Designed by Saccoccio & Associates Architects of Cranston, the school incorporates energy-efficient HVAC systems, and carpet, flooring, ceiling tiles and furniture made with recycled materials. After tearing down the existing building on the lot to make way for the school, contractors recycled some material and crushed the concrete foundation and used the material as the base for new parking areas.
The school also promotes green living by undertaking an in-house recycling program and providing bike storage for those who cycle to work. School officials also reserve the best parking spots for high-occupancy vehicles.
“Meeting Street is thrilled to have achieved LEED certification because it demonstrates our commitment to our children and families, as well as the community – and continues with our tradition of being a model for others to emulate,” John Kelly, president of Meeting Street, said in a statement.
Architects Mark Saccoccio and Ron Stevenson also received accolades from the head of the U.S. Green Building Council.
“Buildings are a prime example of how human systems integrate with natural systems,” said Rick Fedrizzi, president, CEO and founding chair of the council. “Meeting Street efficiently uses our natural resources and makes an immediate, positive impact on our planet, which will tremendously benefit future generations.”
Saccoccio & Associates is a full-service Rhode Island architectural firm founded in 1973 with LEED-accredited professionals comprising 80 percent of the firm’s registered design staff. Its portfolio includes projects in the academic, civic and commercial sectors, implementing new construction, creative renovations sustainable design and historic preservation.
