Providence Newberg Medical Center has constructed the first LEED® Gold certified hospital in the United States. Built by Skanska USA Building, the $70 million Newberg, Ore., facility will have repaid its initial "green" investment cost in 14 months, and in just over a year, the hospital will save nearly 26 percent in annual energy expenses. Sustainable construction features of the project include diverting more than 75 percent of post-construction waste; utilizing recycled building materials for over ten percent of project materials; purchasing all construction materials within 500 miles of the work site; and implementing an Indoor Air Quality Plan during construction and pre-occupancy. Additionally, 100 percent outdoor air fills the building through a unique ventilation system, and 100 percent of all electrical needs are met by the purchase of green power. Occupancy sensors, daylight controls, and centralized lighting control systems turn off lights when spaces are unoccupied, and all public spaces and waiting areas include use of natural light. The hospital opened on June 16, 2006.
