Seismic codes in the U.S. have done a pretty good job at ensuring that occupants will be able to get out of buildings safely in the event of an earthquake. But building to seismic codes does at all ensure that the building will be occupiable after the earthquake. While public safety buildings are typically required to be designed to an elevated level of earthquake resistance, even those requirements don’t necessarily improve the ability of the building to remain useful after the event. The Salt Lake City Public Safety Building will house the city’s police, fire, and emergency operation departments. This new complex is different in that it is designed to maintain functionality during and following the most severe earthquake foreseen.
The $125 million, 335,000 square-foot building (including 172,000 sf of occupied space and 143,000 sf of below-ground parking) includes a wide range of features that help it achieve net-zero-energy performance and LEED Platinum certification. It is one of the only emergency services buildings to achieve net-zero-energy or LEED Platinum.
Net Zero, LEED Platinum
Recognized by the RESILIENT DESIGN INSTITUTE
UC&D Project of the Year – 2013