Construction Magazine December 2016 | Page 26

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SPACEPORT AMERICA : NEW MEXICO

COMPLETING IN 2006 and opening to the general public in 2011 , Spaceport America is a commercial spaceport based in New Mexico , accommodating a variety of aerospace launch vehicles . Owned by the New Mexico Spaceport Authority ( NMSA ), the $ 200 million Spaceport is home to SpaceX and Virgin Galactic incorporated a variety of teams in the build ’ s construction . SDV Construction undertook vital works for Spaceport America ’ s Phase 2 projects , alongside contractors B & D Industries and historic and cultural firms , Van Citters Historic Preservation and Jemez Mountains Research Center , LLC , who worked to ensure reduced impact on the surrounding area , in in turn preserving sites of cultural , historical and archaeological importance . Zia Engineering & Environmental Consultants , LLC were also awarded the contract to support the works undertaken . Sustainable features have been embedded to ensure the design obtained LEED certification . Built with recycled and / or local materials has ensured the reduction in CO2 emissions , in addition to the use of public transport , such as the public shuttle which has ensured the reduction in visitor travel to the site . Also incorporated is the use of glass curtain walls with low e-glazing , which have been placed within the exterior of the build . Furthermore , waste water is recycled at a wastewater treatment plant on site , and natural light is utilised through the use of skylights , reducing the level of energy throughout the build .

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26 December 2016