Blue goes green with Cincinnati?s new net-zero headquarters Sustainable, solar-powered, community-focused: Yes, this is a police station.
Covered in solar panels and decorated with artwork that reflects nearby neighborhoods, Cincinnati?s new District 3 police headquarters sets new standards of sustainability, and plays against the stereotype of boxy, fortress-like city stations. It?s the latest progressive example of how architects, designers, and planners have sought to develop police buildings with a greener, community-focused approach.
After a year of operation, that station became the first of its type in the country to be certified net zero energy, meaning the solar panel-covered roof of this super-efficient structure generates enough energy to supply all its power needs. Achieving such a high measure of energy performance has extra resonance for such a busy facility. Unlike homes, schools, or offices, which are closed or empty most of the day, this new 39,000-square-foot police headquarters sees action 24 hours a day, with nearly 200 officers and staff cycling in and out. Despite these challenges, the building still uses half the power of a typical structure of its size.
Messer Construction
Via an extensive solar array on its roof, the building can provide all the power it needs.

Just as important, District 3 was designed to be a pillar of the 14 west side neighborhoods it serves, a welcoming community center built w...