The three-story building will contain general classrooms and science classrooms with fume hoods and proper ventilation. Many of the classrooms will have video-conferencing capabilities.

As part of the PA State System of Higher Education’s initiative and the Department of General Services’ mandates to incorporate “green/sustainable’ design in their new facilities, IKM and the entire design team are exploring strategies under each of the LEED^® categories for consideration in the new Health Services Building.

Following the LEED^® Scorecard, Sustainable Site related issues may include site selection, alternative transportation, stormwater design, heat island effects and light pollution reduction. Energy and atmosphere considerations are focusing on HVAC efficiency and building commissioning including optimizing energy performance, enhanced commissioning, and enhanced refrigerant management. Materials and resources offer numerous opportunities to ‘green’ the new Health Services building with the selection of products and finishes that contain a high recycled content such as ceiling tile, ceramic tile, carpet and insulation; use of regional materials; and, management of construction waste. Indoor environmental quality considerations have provided design opportunities that maximize daylight; offer controllability of lighting systems; incorporate low-emitting materials in adhesives, sealants, paints, coatings, carpet systems, and composite wood materials; as well as possibly monitoring outdoor air delivery.  And finally, under Innovation & Design Process, credits for innovation in design education and the participation of LEED® Accredited Professionals on the design team earn two additional points for the project.