In a word ... impressive! The world of Men's and Women's Speed Skating is in for a treat.
In July 2004, the City of Richmond signed a proclamation to take a lead role in the development of the Long Track Speed Skating Venue for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. With a vision to create a unique destination and international gathering place for wellness and sports excellence, the City developed the blueprints for a breathtaking venue on the banks of the Fraser River that would be a hallmark of sustainability, accessibility and world-class sportsmanship – The Richmond Oval. More than a spectacular venue for the 2010 Olympic Winter Games, the Oval also signifies a major investment in the overall health and wellbeing of the diverse community of Richmond.
The Richmond Oval is a 512,000 square foot, multi-use facility, with capacity for 8,000 spectators. Its permanent features include community wellness services and programming, sports medicine and sciences, a major fitness centre, community activity areas and restaurant and retail space. The area surrounding the Oval will be the site of a major waterfront neighbourhood incorporating a park and a plaza, with residential, commercial and public amenities.
Sustainability:
The City of Richmond recognizes the importance of upholding and exceeding high standards in environmentally sustainable building and operating practices. A commitment has been made through the Canadian Environmental Assessment process to minimize or mitigate environmental impact resulting from the Oval project.
Before site clearing, a wildlife biologist and arborist assessed the Oval site area. As many trees as possible were preserved, particularly along the river and canal. The City committed to transplanting at least 36 trees, including trees of historical significance, to local parks and other city property, in addition to meeting or exceeding their goal of planting at least two trees for every one removed. Suitable wood was allocated to construction of the building and also for local art projects. In addition, the landscaping plan upholds sustainability standards by maximizing use of native vegetation and minimizing potential for introduction of invasive species.
The Oval’s structure is designed to qualify for silver certification on the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Scale (LEED®). Typically used to evaluate residential and office buildings, the scale was developed in the United States as a method for recognizing buildings for their efficient use of energy and other resources, minimization of waste, and quality of indoor environment. Meeting the LEED® requirements is an ambitious endeavor for a building of this size, but will result in long term operational cost savings, both financial and environmental.
One impressive example of the sustainability features of the Oval is its refrigeration system. Heat energy removed from the ice creation process will be used in other areas of the building. The possibility of using waste energy to heat and cool the neighbourhood surrounding the Oval is also being explored.
Another resource-conserving feature is the roof, which is designed to collect and funnel rainwater for toilet pressure supplementation as well as landscape irrigation. The 100m by 200 m roof is composed of salvaged pine beetle wood, making it the largest surface ever covered by the once-discarded wood.
The City of Richmond has also committed to nurturing the marshlands and estuary in the vicinity of the Oval and will construct interpretive trails along the waterfront to educate visitors on Richmond’s natural beauty.
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