USPS Morgan Processing & Delivery Center Green Roof

Scope: Green Roof Design
Status: Completed 2009
Owner: United States Postal Service
Contact: Craig Sharp, USPS, Retired; 630.295.6240

Built in 1933 and designated a historic landmark, the 2.2-million-square-foot, seven-story Morgan Processing and Delivery Center is located in midtown Manhattan. EKLA PLLC designed ts green roof - the first completed for any U.S. federal building and at almost 2.5 acres, the largest in New York City - to provide facility employees a pleasant space for a breath of fresh air while taking in panoramic views of midtown Manhattan and the northern New Jersey shore.

The roof is extensively planted as a large field of succulents, with bands of lush, native grasses and perennials, and flowering shade trees. Site furnishings constructed of FSC-certified wood and contemporary lighting complete the modern, minimalist design. The overburden will protect and extend the life of the waterproofing by up to 50 years; it reduces stormwater runoff contributions to NYC’s sewer system by as much as 75 percent in the summer and up to 35 percent in the winter.

As a milestone in sustainable design, the project garnered much public attention., including a feature article in The New York Times (7/22/09). Dr. Majora Carter, founder of Sustainable South Bronx, noted “The green roof on this building is not just a green roof on this building. This is going to be the type of education center that teaches people from around the country.”

Project Honors

RoofPoint 2011 Excellence in Water Management Design Award