The Eskenazi Health Parking Garage: A Model of Sustainability for Healthcare Facilities
Healthcare facilities are often massive structures that consume a considerable amount of resources, including energy and water. However, the Eskenazi Health Parking Garage is challenging this perception by setting an example of sustainability in healthcare facilities. Built-in 2012, this parking garage is an epitome of sustainable construction and management that can inspire other healthcare facilities to follow in its footsteps.
Location and Design
The Eskenazi Health Parking Garage is an eight-story parking structure that accommodates over 1,500 vehicles. It is located in Indianapolis, Indiana, on the northwestern edge of the Eskenazi Health campus. Designed by HOK Architects, the garage construction set specific goals to ensure it would meet the highest standards of environmental responsibility.
Firstly, the parking garage’s design used cutting-edge technology to minimize energy consumption as much as possible. Among these, the garage has 224 distinct photovoltaic solar panels rated to produce 53,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity annually, which is enough to power sixty homes. Additionally, photovoltaic devices allow cars to charge faster, creating a circular virtuous cycle of power generation and usage. The new garage has reduced the use of energy by half compared to its predecessor.
Secondly, resources used in constructing the parking garage were top of the line, and they helped the structure earn a LEED Silver certification. The garage is constructed with an open-web steel joist system that provides ample structural support while creating a large, uninterrupted space. The garage also incorporates a permeable, high-performance concrete surface to reduce runoff while improving drainage.
Sustainable Management
The Eskenazi Health Parking Garage is managed using environmentally friendly practices that ensure minimal waste and maximum efficiency. The use of technology plays a significant role in managing the parking garage. For instance, the garage features an on-premise vehicle locator system that makes it easier for drivers to find their cars. Besides, the parking garage has a fleet of electric shuttle buses that visitors can use to navigate the Eskenazi Health Campus. The shuttle buses’ use helps reduce the number of gasoline vehicles that enter the facility, hence reducing carbon emissions.
The parking garage also promotes clean air and minimal environmental pollution through its built-in HVAC system, which uses 100% outside air to improve air quality. The heating and air conditioning systems are computer-controlled, further increasing energy efficiency.
Conclusion
The Eskenazi Health Parking Garage is an excellent example of how healthcare facilities can operate sustainably. The parking garage’s construction and management practices have shown that it is possible to reduce energy consumption while increasing efficiency in healthcare facilities. As more healthcare providers adopt sustainable approaches to construction and management, the healthcare industry will become more eco-friendly, saving money while reducing carbon footprints.
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