City of Iowa City Landfill Recycle Center

This project involved the master planning associated with a comprehensive reorganization of operations at the Iowa City Sanitary Landfill. The project entailed the construction of various site improvements, including the provision of five material reclamation stations, and the construction of a 3,200 square foot scale house/recycling center.

Sustainable Elements

Expand/Collapse sectionElements
Passive solar design, inherently energy efficient construction techniques and materials, and a high percentage of recycled material where incorporated.
Expand/Collapse sectionSite
  • Reduce heat island effect: Light colored concrete (SRI above 29).
  • Minimum 6 in. clear between grade and building material, slope all finished grade and concrete surfaces away from building.
  • Install drip edge entire perimeter of roof.
  • Flashing integrated into building drainage plain at intersection of components.
  • Minimum 2 in. clearance between wall cladding and roofing materials.
  • Integrity and continuity of thermal barrier.
Expand/Collapse sectionWater Efficiency
  • No irrigation: Use no potable water for site irrigation.
Expand/Collapse sectionEnergy and Atmosphere
  • HVAC efficient duct systems: sizing and installation of duct systems in accordance with ACCA (parts D, J and S) and ASHRAE requirements.
  • All ducts sealed and tested for leakage.
  • Furnaces: 95% energy efficient.
  • Air conditioners: 12 SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating).
  • Thermostats: 7 day programmable.
Expand/Collapse sectionMaterial and Resources
  • Exterior envelope: Use of structural Insulated Panels (SIPS) – R 21.2 whole wall.
  • Fiberglass attic insulations: Provide R-40.
  • Durable and low maintenance exteriors: Factory finish metal siding and clad wood window.
  • Provide building materials with high recycled content.
  • Regional materials: Hi percent of building materials are manufactured or extracted within a 500 mile radius.
Expand/Collapse sectionIndoor Environmental Quality
  • Low Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) paint, vanish adhesives, and caulk.
  • No added urea formaldehyde in materials or products.
Expand/Collapse sectionUniversal Design
  • Interior doors provide a min. of 32 in. clear width.
  • Accessible pathway through all interior spaces provided.
  • No step entrance at all units per the requirements of the American with Disabilities Act.
  • Strobe and Horn smoke and CO detectors for visually or hearing impaired.