The devastating flood of 2008 in Cedar Rapids impacted more than 30 non-profit organizations. As a result, many began assessing temporary and permanent options for their facilities. Already evaluating their own space needs, the United Way of East Central Iowa lead the initiative to create a human service campus facility to serve numerous non-profits in a creative co-location concept.

The building features three floors of office and meeting spaces located above surface parking. Each floor was planned in a multi-tenant configuration with shared conferencing. The design team embraced sustainable economic, environmental, and socially-responsible principles in the development of the building.

Economic 

• A regional project contributing to local economy
• Co-location will reduce overall square footage needs by sharing common spaces
• Design concepts will enhance energy use and efficiency
• Natural lighting and daylighting strategies lessen utilities load and create a better working space

Environmental 

• Urban site re-use
• Parking under building reduces site footprint
• Building system integration
• Storm water systems for management and cleaning of water before it enters the Cedar River watershed
• “Cool-roof” materials to avoid heat-island effects
• Native trees and plants to eliminate irrigation needs

Social 

• Close proximity to trails and transportation
• Connection to neighborhoods
• Community meeting facility
• A component of a city-wide walkable/livable initiative