Date: November 11, 2008
Contact: Lindsay Gladstone
Governors State University
Phone: (708) 534-7090
Fax: (708) 534-8399
Email: l-gladstone@govst.edu
For Immediate Release
University Park, IL, November 11, 2008 – What do the White Sox and the students at Governors State University have in common? They can both park their cars on innovative and environmentally responsible permeable paved parking lots.
Like U.S. Cellular Field, GSU is replacing some of its existing asphalt parking lots with permeable paving supplied and installed by Rose Paving Company of Bridgeview, Illinois.
Permeable pavers are interlocking paver bricks made of concrete. Their interlocking, notched design enables them to withstand heavy traffic loads. Most importantly, these pavers help to protect the environment by allowing rain water to seep downward, trapping heavy metals and pollutants, rather than run off into our storm sewers.
Also included in the project are bio-swales (depressed green areas), which will catch additional water runoff. This process filters the water, thereby reducing the amount of storm water draining into our lakes and waterways. Additionally, permeable pavers outlast traditional parking lot materials and can withstand the negative impact of weather and heat, along with the presence of oil, gasoline, and salt.
“Permeable paving is recognized as green by the EPA and U.S. Green Building Council,” said Susan Rakstang, Associate Vice President for Facilities Development and Management. “Installation of this environmentally responsible material fits with our commitment at GSU to better manage our storm water systems and protect and preserve our natural environment.”
The university is already a leader in the creating a green campus. Improvement and renovation projects over the past ten years have involved the reduction of energy consumption and promoted recycling.
Previously, GSU replaced lighting fixtures and light bulbs in its Center for Performing Arts, the university television studios, and in all classrooms, offices, and hallways with more energy efficient lighting. Additionally, GSU has one of the largest solar panel installations in Illinois, providing energy to heat water, including water for the swimming pool and showers in the GSU Recreation and Fitness Center.
The first phase of the renovation program began in early September with the installation of permeable pavers in parking lot B. Parking lot C is currently being replaced with the new surface as well. The finished lots will include an increased number of parking spaces, better security lighting, and additional emergency phones.
In addition to the permeable paving, landscaping native to Illinois will be reintroduced to the grounds surrounding the lots. These projects are part of several improvements to the university building and grounds that comprise GSU’s Deferred Maintenance program.
