LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) - The Kentucky Center is planning on going
green in more ways than one.
The facility is working toward a new environmentally friendly
roof that will not only save on energy costs but will be topped
with water-storing sedum plants.
Officials say it would be a prize because unlike most green
roofs, it could be easily seen and is located in a well-traveled
part of downtown Louisville.
Abby Shue, executive projects director for the center, told The
Courier-Journal that the green design would cover about 51,000
square feet of the 76,000-square-foot roof and add up to $1.5
million to the cost.
Architect Cash Moter says the center will have "significant
savings over the life of the roof" although the exact amount has
not been calculated.
Shue said the 15-year-old roof needs to be replaced, noting that
it is past its warranty and has been leaking.
"We've been doing patch jobs," she said.
The proposed roof would contain a special type of soil and
plants to soak up water and provide insulation, which Moter said
would lower energy bills.
The center, which is owned by the state, will ask for $3.5
million in funding when the General Assembly meets next year. Shue
said since state funding is tight other funding options are also
being explored.
She said up to 500,000 people a year visit the center for
concerts and other events - and many people will be able to see the
roof from nearby office towers.
"It's so important for the Kentucky Center to continue
improving its footprint and building for a sustainable future,"
Shue said. "We have to show (our visitors) we're not only a leader
in the arts, but a socially and environmentally responsible leader
as well."

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Information from: The Courier-Journal,
http://www.courier-journal.com

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)