#United States #Phoenix #Krause Architecture #C40 Cities #Resource Innovation

Krause Architecture Triumphs in C40 Cities Initiative

In a significant development for sustainability in urban areas, Arizona's architectural firm Krause has been selected as the winner of the C40 Cities Reinventing Cities Initiative. This initiative is a global competition that focuses on transforming underutilized urban spaces into sustainable and resilient hubs. Krause's project will spearhead the development of the Resource Innovation Campus (RIC) in Phoenix, aiming to turn waste into valuable resources while fostering innovation and job growth.

A Vision for the Future

The RIC is designed to serve as a platform for companies to advance their innovative manufacturing technologies. At a time when waste management and circular economies are becoming critical issues, this campus offers a transformative approach to both. Krause's vision is not just about improving existing structures; it’s about redefining how communities can interact with sustainability.

Michael Krause, the firm’s Partner and Senior Designer, expressed his excitement: "Our design approach to Phoenix's Resource Innovation Campus begins where the typical approach ends. Rather than seeking incremental improvements, we targeted a fully carbon-positive building and pursued the Living Building Challenge certification—the most rigorous sustainability standard worldwide. We aim to create a facility that not only meets environmental benchmarks but exceeds them."

Targeting Circular Economy

The ambitious plan for the RIC indicates a clear alignment with the City of Phoenix's objectives, which aim for a 50% waste diversion by 2030 and a zero-waste goal by 2050. The design promotes partnerships between public and private sectors while encouraging sustainable business practices. This initiative will undoubtedly serve as a catalyst for local economic revitalization and technological advancement in Arizona.

Community Impact

The proposed site, located at the 27th Avenue Transfer Station in Estrella Village, an area known for its longstanding manufacturing history, will encompass 20 acres of currently underutilized land. Mayor Kate Gallego remarked, "This is an exciting step forward for Phoenix, promising sustainable development in an essential part of our city. The RIC will redefine how the built environment interacts with the local economy and community." The project is expected to inject new life into the area, creating opportunities for job growth and fostering a sense of pride among residents.

Environmental Vision

Complementing the site’s development, the RIC project landmarks intersections with broader environmental initiatives, such as Senator John McCain’s Rio Reimagined project, which aims to enhance the ecosystems along the Salt River and Gila River. This mutual reinforcement of local projects amplifies the overall mission of sustainability and environmental education, thereby ensuring a continuous loop of innovation.

Conclusion

The C40 Cities initiative has been instrumental in piloting environmental innovations across major cities worldwide and Krause’s work will be a part of this legacy. As the world shifts focus toward sustainability, the Resource Innovation Campus will stand as a testament to what can be achieved when innovation, community, and environmental consciousness synergize. Plans to roll out construction for the RIC are set for early 2025, with completion expected by 2028, marking a new chapter in Phoenix’s journey towards sustainability and job creation.

For further updates and developments on the Resource Innovation Campus, stay connected with Krause Architecture. The future of Phoenix is taking shape, driven by innovative designs and a commitment to environmental stewardship.