Yes, Penn State builds on brownfield sites, where possible. As outlined in the new Capital Plan, campus building projects are focused on prior Capital plan renovations, re-building, and on system renewals on existing sites. Renovations and rebuilding are considered brownfield building based on global standards.
While Penn State pursues sustainable and LEED-certified new construction, there is no explicit policy prioritizing brownfield redevelopment. Most building projects focus on sustainable design and infill development but not specifically on brownfields.
Recent examples of brownfield construction:
- Susan Welch Liberal Arts Building is using an innovative design that takes into account site constraints — such as zoning height restrictions, mature tree locations, connections to existing sidewalk networks and service needs — along with the desire for a cohesive design with adjacent buildings.
- A renovation of the East Hall residential halls took place instead of building in a new location.
- Animal, Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences Building was built on site of former Henning Building.
- Chemical and Biomedical Engineering Building was built on the site of former Fenske Laboratory.
Learn more about Penn State’s progress on the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals on the SDG Progress page HERE, and learn more about work on SDG 11 HERE.
