Northwestern Grayslake Expansion Project Recognized for Green Efforts

An expansion project at Northwestern Grayslake has been certified for its environmentally friendly design by the U.S. Green Building Council, according to a Northwestern Medicine press release. 

Grayslake Phase III, a 3-story, 90,000-square-foot addition to the existing outpatient facility, was awarded Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver status by the U.S. Green Building Council.

"This achievement continues to emphasize our commitment to sustainability and our focus on making our campuses green," said James J. Mladucky, AIA, ACHA, CCS, director of Facility Planning and Construction for Northwestern Memorial HealthCare, in the news release. 

Earning LEED status has been a priority for Northwestern Medicine. The health system is committed to building designs and renovation projects that incorporate “green” elements such as roof gardens; energy efficient heating and cooling systems; use of local materials; water conserving plumbing fixtures; and high efficiency windows and glazing systems. 

The Grayslake expansion project includes the relocation of a retention pond and associated wetlands area, the creation of a healing garden and clinical expansion space targeted for cancer, orthopaedics and rehabilitation services. It also includes support and clinic space for the new Northwestern McGaw Family Medicine Residency program. 

There are four LEED Certification levels: Certified, Silver, Gold and Platinum. They are awarded based on how many strategies are incorporated into a project to increase performance, reduce waste and improve quality of life. Northwestern Grayslake Cancer and Surgery Centers achieved LEED Certified level in 2011.

To learn more about Northwestern Grayslake, visit lfh.org/northwesterngrayslake. 

Source: Northwestern Medicine press release