Rivers Casino located in Des Plaines, Illinois is the first casino to be awarded the LEED Gold certification from the US Green Building Council.
The Chief Executive Officer of Rivers Casino, Greg Carlin expressed excitement by stating that the recognition as a leader in sustainable development is essential in setting an example for the entertainment and gaming industry. Carlin also added that the efforts of the development team including Cleo Design, Klai Juba Architects, Pepper Construction, Development Management Associates, the city of Des Plaines and their general contractor are responsible for the honor that River Casino has been bestowed with.
The Chairman of Midwest Gaming and Entertainment, Neil Bluhm stated that the LEED Gold certification process was expensive and challenging but is intended to reduce the operating costs of the casino in the long run along with improving the environment.
Rivers Casino was designed to achieve LEED certification for lighting, material use, water and energy along with the integration of several sustainable elements. The LEED Gold Certification is based on several green construction features that have impacted the local community and the project positively.
LED light fixtures have been incorporated in the casino’s parking garage and certain other regions to reduce maintenance costs and energy usage. The green power generated offsets 70% of the energy consumed by the casino over two years. Clerestory windows and skylights facilitated natural lighting and reduced lighting costs. Water usage was reduced by 40% by installing sensor-controlled faucets and low-flow fixtures. Living green walls in the interior of the casino ensures better air quality. The casino also features occupant sensor-controlled fixtures that ensure lighting is only provided when needed. Furthermore, to reduce heat island effects, the casino also features white roof, multi-level parking structure, concrete drives and adequate landscaping.
Source: https://www.riverscasino.com/