Environmental factors have been considered in constructing the new patient care facility at the UK hospital. Plans are in the early stages to make the fourth floor roof a "green roof."

The "green roof" will consist of specially designed plastic trays of plants that will cover nearly 22,000 square feet of the rooftop. It is an expensive renovation with the plants costing $20 per square foot.

Dan Miesle, UK Dir. Facility, Planning, & Development, says, "It's a little bit more expensive, but it doubles the life of the roof, so they'll pay it back within 5 years."

Using the "green roof" will improve aesthetics, reduce water runoff, improve air quality,and save energy.

The roof is expected to be complete by the summer of 2010.