Puyallup – The Johnson Science Building (JSB) at Pierce College Puyallup achieved LEED® Gold certification by the U.S. Green Building Council. This certification recognizes the college’s commitment to sustainability that is reflected in the Johnson Science Building’s design.
The JSB was designed in partnership with Integrus Architecture with the guiding principle of being a “radically welcoming” space for all learners to thrive. That idea fueled a goal of creating an environmentally responsible, high-performance building that goes beyond traditional benchmarks to reduce the carbon emissions and energy footprint of the Pierce College Puyallup campus.
“We are tremendously proud to see the Johnson Science Building recognized with LEED Gold certification,” said Pierce College Puyallup President, Chio Flores. “Every day, this building invites students to envision themselves as scientists and innovators. Now, it also stands as a powerful symbol of our college’s commitment to environmental stewardship and a sustainable future.”
Central to the compact design of the building was the idea to preserve as much of the campus’ mature trees and ecology and minimize the impact of the building on the surrounding forest growth. The design also utilizes elements, like tree stumps left from what was required to be cleared, as both a living environment for the campus and a learning space for students. The gardens surrounding the JSB focus on indigenous plants and trees to enhance students’ learning about Washington State’s unique flora and fauna.
The focus on minimizing the building's ecological impact extends to innovative water management to improve water quality while maintaining the health of our neighboring wetland ecosystems. AHBL Inc. added educational rain gardens to treat roof runoff and recharge groundwater, and a bioretention system in the parking lot outside the JSB which removes oils and pollutants from stormwater before it is discharged downstream.
“This LEED Gold certification reflects Pierce College’s commitment to building thriving, resilient communities while ensuring the long-term sustainability of our institution through responsible stewardship of our resources, environment, and learning spaces,” said Chancellor Julie White, Ph.D.
From automatic door closers that enhance indoor air quality and regulate temperature to electric vehicle chargers installed outside the building, the JSB demonstrates Pierce College’s continued commitment to creating a sustainable college campus. The Johnson Science Building opened in 2024 and has since welcomed thousands of students to further their STEM education thanks to the collaborative work of Pierce College Puyallup staff, Integrus Architects, AHBL Inc., Site Workshop, the Washington State Department of Enterprise Services, Andrew Clapham & Assoc. LLC Project and Construction Management, and Absher Construction.