Pennsylvania and Ohio: Rust Belt or Green Belt?

Are the days of Pennsylvania and Ohio being the center of the Rust Belt gone?  Well, maybe at least in terms of leading the way in green construction.  Early this year, the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) released its listing of the Top 10 states that have certified the most gross square feet of green building space per capita based on 2016.  While Pennsylvania and Ohio just missed out on the top 10, making the USGBC’s honorable mention list at #13 and #11, respectively, both states have shown a commitment to green building and sustainability.

In 2016, Pennsylvania had 115 commercial projects certified, representing 17.98 million gross square feet.  Ohio had 122 commercial projects certified, representing 17.40 million gross square feet.  In particular, Pennsylvania and Ohio were assisted by state-wide commitments to green building projects for K to 12 as well as higher education.  Thirty-one K to 12 or higher education certified projects were completed in Pennsylvania; while approximately 46% of the certified projects completed in Ohio were K to 12 or higher education.

Only time will tell if this is a trend that will continue in the region. For more information about the construction industry in PA and Ohio, contact us.