MANCHESTER – St. Mary’s Bank announces that its McGregor Street headquarters has been awarded the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Gold certification (LEED). This rating system, developed by the U.S. Green Building Council, is the foremost program for buildings, homes and communities that are designed, constructed, maintained, and operated for improved environmental and human health performance.

The McGregor Street headquarters, designed by Lavallee Brensinger Architects, represents St. Mary’s Bank’s commitment to green initiatives.

“When we began thinking about construction of our new headquarters building, we knew we wanted efficiency and sustainability to be incorporated into the design,” said Ron Covey, president and CEO of St. Mary’s Bank. “There was a small upfront cost, but we knew that the long-term value would far outweigh the initial expense. We thank Lavallee Brensinger Architects for designing a building that stayed true to our goals, and we are thrilled to receive LEED Gold certification.”

St. Mary’s Bank achieved LEED certification for implementing practical and measurable construction and operation strategies. Recycled products were used in the construction and interior finishes of the new headquarters and large portions of the credit union’s previous building were reused or recycled for the new building. The structure features well-insulated walls and roof and tight-fitting windows and doorways prevent heating and cooling losses, to ensure the highest energy efficiency. In addition, energy-efficient equipment and LED lighting reduce electricity costs and efficient fixtures use less water.

Photovoltaic panels are mounted atop the drive-up teller canopy to create electricity that is used directly by the building, meeting approximately 15 percent of the building’s power demand. A monitor in the lobby displays the building’s energy production and savings.

To create a healthy work environment, construction materials and interior finishes do not emit fumes and odors, and bountiful natural light promotes mental well-being, work efficiency and workplace enjoyment.

“Achieving LEED certification is more than implementing sustainable practices. It represents a commitment to making the world a better place and influencing others to do better,” said Mahesh Ramanujam, president and CEO of the U.S. Green Building Council. “Because of St. Mary’s Bank, USGBC is increasing the number of green buildings and getting closer to our goal to outpace conventional buildings, while being environmentally and socially responsible and improving the quality of life for generations to come.”

LEED remains the foremost program for the design, construction, and operation of green buildings. More than 38,600 commercial and institutional projects currently participate in LEED, comprising more than six billion square feet of construction space in all 50 states and more than 167 countries and territories.