The Challenge:
As Earthlinked Technologies’ business began to expand, they realized the need for a larger corporate office and manufacturing facility in Lakeland, FL. They envisioned an economic, high-tech facility that would be Polk County’s first LEED certified building. Without hesitation, they called on Rodda Construction to make this groundbreaking endeavor a success.
The Solution:
Rodda Construction took the lead on this 30,000SF facility by identifying capable suppliers and subcontractors who could deliver on the project. We earned numerous LEED points for creating and implementing a construction waste recycling program that diverted almost 90% (171 tons) of trash from the landfill, as well as an Indoor Air Quality plan to keep the workers, and future occupants safe from the airborne hazards that can sometime accompany construction activities. In addition, we procured and installed 25% of the buildings materials from local sources, saving transportation costs and emissions, and supporting the use of native resources. Also, 25% of the building’s materials were recycled, again diverting material from the dump, and saving new materials from being harvested.
To gain additional LEED points for energy efficiency, the project utilized Earthlinked Technologies’ unique geothermal Water Heating and HVAC systems for the first time in the State of Florida. The efforts of Earthlinked’s and Rodda’s staff to coordinate the installation of the underground copper tubing and innovative equipment made their processes thrive even in central Florida’s difficult climate. Rodda then implemented the project’s one-of-a-kind controllability mechanisms on the buildings lighting and HVAC systems. Finally, we coordinated an extensive commissioning effort to ensure that the Buildings systems were running properly, in order to achieve maximum comfort and efficiency.
The Result:
Due to Rodda’s willingness and ability to be a creative and dedicated project team leader, the project was a smashing success, indeed becoming Polk County’s first LEED Certified by the US Green Building Council in 2009. Not only was this project important to all of the firms involved, it has set the standard for all new construction in the area to make every effort to be more environmentally friendly. The project was completed within the Owner’s time and budget constraints, and has enabled their business to continue to grow.
Client Testimonial
As the demand grew for its proprietary energy and environmental saving heating and cooling systems, EarthLinked Technologies needed a larger building for production and offices. We wanted the building to receive LEED certification and serve as a showcase for our international visitors.
John Rodda had managed the construction of an office building in which I was a partner and had built a major addition to our church. Because of the success of those projects, Rodda Construction was the natural choice to build our company’s new home.
The project was a complete success. Because of Rodda’s broad experience in commercial construction, no challenge became a problem. Vice President Jason Rodda, the overall project manager was very responsive and pleasant. He achieved our objectives in every way. The project was completed on-time and was cost-effective; and our building became the first LEED certified building in Polk County.
Hal Roberts
Chief Executive Officer
EarthLinked Technologies, Inc
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