What is LEED®?

The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System™ is the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction, and operation of high performance green buildings. LEED gives building owners and operators the tools they need to have an immediate and measurable impact on their buildings’ performance. 

LEED promotes a whole-building approach to sustainability by recognizing performance in five key areas of human and environmental health:

• sustainable site development,
• water savings,
• energy efficiency,
• materials selection,
• and indoor environmental quality.

LEED-certified buildings have reduced operating costs, healthier and more productive occupants, and conserve our natural resources.

The regional jail will seek LEED certification upon completion of construction. The jail's design includes several green features to reduce energy costs over the life of the building. 

Features that will be implemented include:

• capture and re-use of roof top rain water for laundry operations
• vacuum assisted plumbing system
• water electronic monitoring to minimize the purchase, use and treatment of water 
• video visitation between inmates and visitors will be used to minimize traffic to the facility