New Centennial Office Building Completed
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Contact: Colleen Kilkenny
303.860.6676
colleen.kilkenny@weitz.com
NEW CENTENNIAL OFFICE BUILDING SUPPORTS GROWING BUSINESS COMMUNITY
The Weitz Company builds on its 50 year office construction legacy
DENVER, Colo – September 24, 2009 –The Centennial Station office building at 12154 East Easter Avenue was the most recent collaboration for the U.S. General Services Administration, developer Harwood & Associates, general contractor The Weitz Company and architect Gensler. This new 95,000 square foot building not only supports the city’s economic development, but also raises the bar in architectural excellence and green building. 
“The development site in Centennial was chosen because of the easy access to the Denver metropolitan area and the varied residential areas in the City of Centennial, proximity to Centennial Airport, the ability for future expansion of the building, and impressive views of the Rocky Mountains,” said Damon Harwood, president of Harwood & Associates.
To support Centennial’s economic development, the project secured a 20-year lease with the building tenant, which will allow them to grow with the surrounding community. This building is fully occupied. In addition, throughout the 12 months of construction on the site, the project employed between approximately 100 construction workers daily who became patrons at local businesses and eateries, and continue to patronize these establishments.
With its location in one of Colorado’s newest cities, the development team felt it was important that Centennial Station’s design aligned with the city’s vision for a vibrant community with a diverse and friendly business climate offering visitors, residents and businesses a high quality of life experience. This meant creating a building that took advantage of the beautiful views the City has to offer.
“The Government’s goals for their new regional headquarters were to create an iconic new home, increase security, and consolidate multiple departments and locations,” said Blake Mourer, Gensler Design Director. “We met these goals through a high-efficiency building that encourages staff collaboration, maintains a Level 3 security requirement, and creates a striking presence in the Centennial area.”
The building sits on the western edge of the site, and includes an atrium and balconies that show off the stunning views. Making the vision a reality, the completed development beautifies the area with a four-story curtain wall façade with steel trellis, reflecting pool and fountain with active jets and exterior benches for employees to enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery. Employee amenities include break rooms, a jogging path and workout facility. A central conference and learning center includes a pre-function area for staff collaboration. A secure outdoor deck on the top floor overlooks the Front Range and is accessible to all employees from a common lobby.
“We worked closely with the City’s management, both during planning and construction, ensuring the final product was exceptional,“ said Bill Hornaday, president of The Weitz Company’s Rocky Mountain Region. “Centennial Station has set the standard for future developments in the new City of Centennial.”
In addition, the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) guidelines were followed during construction. The development supports sustainable design, targeting LEED Silver certification. Open space on the site was maximized. The building’s mechanical and electrical systems were fully commissioned to ensure optimal function and energy savings. The construction team recycled 83% of construction debris, including drywall, steel and concrete. The on-site office staff was able to recycle 4.5 tons of paper during construction. Indoor air quality was of utmost importance, utilizing low VOC paints and adhesives and during construction, strict guidelines were adhered to maintain air quality. Regional materials and materials with recycled content were used whenever possible, both for environmental benefits and to contribute to the local economy. Parking and transportation were designed to be environmentally friendly, with bicycle storage, changing facilities, preferred parking for fuel efficient vehicles and minimal paved parking areas.
As a means of evaluating and measuring green building achievements, all GSA new construction projects must achieve Silver certification through the LEED Green Building Rating System of the U.S. Green Building Council. "GSA makes sustainable design a priority and has for some time. It is encouraging to see the building and construction industry adopting green practices more widely now. The GSA is happy that we could play a part in the development of the City of Centennial's landscape," said Scott Conner, GSA’s Acting Regional Commissioner for the Public Buildings Service.
About The Weitz Company
Founded in 1855, The Weitz Company is a national full-service general contractor, design-builder and construction manager with offices in 11 states and Guam. The Rocky Mountain Business Unit has offices in Denver and Frisco, and has been in Colorado for more than 50 years. The company’s expertise includes office, retail, residential condominiums, tenant interiors, resort properties, parking structures, industrial, healthcare, education, government and mixed-use facilities. More information about The Weitz Company is available at www.weitz.com.