FDI BREAKS GROUND ON ENERGY NEUTRAL CLASSROOM

Smart Building System hailed as First-of-its-kind in New England

HARTFORD, CONN. (May 27, 2009)—In its quest to achieve energy neutrality, Fisher Development, Inc., a national general contractor, broke ground today on what promises to be the most energy efficient modular classroom building in New England, setting a new standard for healthy, sustainable learning environments.

The Watkinson School, a grade 6-PG independent institution located here, will house its new Center for Science & Global Citizenship in the 5,000 square foot glass and steel structure complete with living roof and eco-friendly mechanical systems. The footprint includes three interlocking classrooms connecting various disciplines of study and optimal space for collaboration. Other features include a “thinktank zone,” a dedicated space for exhibits and demonstrations and a state-of-the-art laboratory.

Construction of the new facility begins in June, and will be complete when school commences in fall 2009. Not only was the cost and modern design attractive to the Watkinson School community, but the unique way in which the building is assembled dramatically decreases the construction schedule—in this case less than three months from start to finish.

The Center’s award-winning design is the brainchild of Project Frog, a San Francisco-based company specializing in smart building systems. It will feature numerous LEED equivalent components including highly efficient mechanical and ventilation systems, solar glazing, lighting controls and ground source heat pumps. The building will also use human behavior awareness tools such as software monitors.

“Watkinson School is on the ground floor of a new phenomenon that could transform the design and construction industry,” said Denise Sharp, President of Fisher Development. “This building takes the most desirable elements of green building and puts them into an attractive, affordable and quick to deploy application.”

“As a national general contractor with expertise in coordinating and building these projects, FDI is poised to help schools and businesses get up and running in a fraction of the time at an affordable price,” Sharp continued.

About Fisher Development, Inc.: a national general contractor and construction management firm specializing in sustainable construction, tenant improvement, core/shell and historic preservation for schools, retail stores, restaurants and corporate offices throughout the United States. FDI is a member of the US Green Building Council and the USGBC Northern California chapter. Founded in 1971 in San Francisco, the company has offices in New York City, Chicago and Orlando.

Media Contact:
Sydney Fisher Bernier
Tel: 415.330.5861
sbernier@fisherinc.com