Renewing with Green Jobs

Thanks to $121 million in funding made available to GSA through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, modernization and renovation of the Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalanianaole Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse in Honolulu is under way.

The funding covers redesign of the 32-year-old federal campus, and full renovation and construction of the courthouse portion of the facility. GSA will complete a comprehensive replacement of the core mechanical, electrical, fire-safety, and plumbing infrastructure, with additional goals of reducing energy consumption by 30 percent and attaining a silver designation under the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design program.

Repairs and alterations will include replacement of most of the air cooling and circulation systems, along with major upgrades to the electrical power systems, alarm systems, and other safety capabilities. New ceilings and lighting will be added in many parts of the facility, and the restrooms and associated plumbing will be extensively renovated. Improvements to access areas of the building and various other changes will make the complex more efficient and functional.

This Recovery Act project has led to employment for many people who had struggled to find work during the economic downturn. Tim Grafstrom is one such person. Grafstrom came to Honolulu from Seattle to take the job of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing coordinator. Watch his story.

Read more about GSA’s Recovery Act efforts.