Low embodied carbon glass contract awarded for Powell Courthouse
On Feb. 5, GSA awarded the second of two Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) funded contracts to buy low embodied carbon (LEC) glass windows for the Lewis F. Powell, Jr. U.S. Courthouse and Annex in Richmond, Virginia. The two contracts, valued at nearly $11 million, will replace the windows, eliminate leaks, and increase building energy efficiency at the U.S. Courthouse and Annex. The window replacements are part of a larger renovation project that includes updates to the roof, gutters and storm drain pipes, along with installation of a new fall protection system.
The low embodied glass procurement at the Powell U.S. Courthouse and Annex is one of 11 low embodied carbon (LEC) pilot projects announced by GSA in May 2023. Funded by IRA, the largest climate investment in U.S. history, GSA’s LEC pilot is a part of President Biden’s Federal Buy Clean Initiative, which promotes the use of low-carbon, made in America construction materials in federally funded projects.
The LEC glass award for Powell was the first GSA procurement of low embodied carbon materials using IRA funds. The LEC glass procured for the Powell Courthouse and Annex project is made in America by Vitro Architectural glass and meets GSA’s Interim IRA Low Embodied Carbon Material Requirements for flat glass. The product meets the courthouse’s needs while generating fewer emissions from manufacturing.
“We’re thrilled to be working with homegrown manufacturers who are striving to create their products in a way that’s less harmful to the environment,” said GSA Administrator Robin Carnahan. “American industry is proving that they can innovate, create good jobs, and drive sustainability in how we build and maintain the federal footprint. I look forward to seeing even more products in the market at low levels of greenhouse gas emissions.”
“GSA is pleased to make this investment in the Powell Courthouse,” said Joanna Rosato, Acting Deputy Commissioner for the Public Buildings Service. “This project is an opportunity to support the court’s mission through sustainable improvements to an iconic historic structure in downtown Richmond.”
The renovation at the Powell U.S. Courthouse and Annex is scheduled for substantial completion in early 2025.
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