OREGON CITY, Oregon (Dec. 2, 2024) – PCL Construction Services, Inc., in collaboration with DCI Engineers, announces the findings of a comprehensive sustainability study on the new Clackamas County Courthouse Replacement Project. This study highlights innovative, future-proofing measures aimed at enhancing sustainability, efficiency and long-term performance in public infrastructure projects.

The original courthouse, designed for 50,000 residents, struggled to serve the county's current population of over 420,000. To address this, a resilient, future-proof facility was envisioned, prioritizing sustainability and innovation. The design incorporates materials like mass timber and reduced carbon concrete, with the goal of achieving LEED Gold Certification, ensuring the courthouse not only meets the demands of today but also supports a sustainable future.

Through optimizing the courthouse’s structural layout, setting their own environmental guidelines and strategic use of materials, the project team was able to save nearly a quarter of a million dollars and 1,360 metric tons of CO2e, equating to 325 cars off the road for a year. Here is a look at how they achieved these results:

1. Reduced floor slab thickness: The team minimized concrete slab thickness by one inch on 75% of the floors, saving around 410 cubic yards of concrete. This approach not only cut costs but also reduced the environmental impact by using less material.
2. Fewer interior columns: The team designed the building’s floor layout to allow for a "cantilevered slab” design, a specialized type of concrete slab that does not need support directly beneath it. This approach eliminated an entire row of columns that would typically support the floors, saving 80 cubic yards of concrete and 36 tons of steel reinforcement.
3. Low-carbon cement replacement: To reduce the building’s carbon footprint, the team assessed the environmental impact of each type of concrete used. Working closely with suppliers, they used a special concrete mix with lower carbon emissions in the building’s elevated slabs—since these slabs accounted for 60% of the courthouse’s concrete.

For more information on the study, view this case study. 

"At PCL, we understand the importance of creating public spaces that not only meet today’s standards but are prepared to adapt to future environmental and societal changes," said Jon Kindrachuk, PCL senior project manager for the Clackamas County Courthouse Replacement project. "Working alongside DCI Engineers on this project has allowed us to deliver a facility that sets a new benchmark in sustainable, community-focused design."

The study demonstrates that the courthouse, equipped with forward-thinking design elements and sustainable building practices, is well-positioned to handle shifts in environmental demands and energy requirements. DCI Engineers managed the Whole Building Life Cycle Assessment, considering the material savings and procurement decisions for the project, which measured a 23% embodied carbon reduction. This is estimated to earn three points for the project’s targeted LEED Gold Certification.

“Proactive structural design and coordination is critical in optimizing material use in our buildings and lowering our industry’s carbon footprint,” noted Jessica Martinez, DCI Associate and Structural Sustainability Specialist. “Historically, there has been a misconception that making sustainable choices will cost more money, but if we can create more opportunities for collaboration and innovation, it’s possible to capture meaningful embodied carbon reductions that also cut costs.”

Both companies are proud to contribute to Clackamas County’s vision of a modern, eco-conscious courthouse. This project exemplifies the impact of sustainable engineering and construction practices on public infrastructure, and both DCI Engineers and PCL look forward to advancing future partnerships that prioritize environmental responsibility and community well-being.

About PCL Construction
PCL is a group of independent construction companies that operates throughout the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, and Australia. As one of the largest contracting organizations in North America, PCL completes more than $7 billion USD in work annually, building projects that shape communities. The company’s 100% employee ownership model fuels a culture of commitment for clients in the buildings, civil infrastructure, heavy industrial and solar markets. With a strategic presence in more than 30 major centers, PCL’s leadership teams consistently drive innovation and set new benchmarks for excellence, bringing unparalleled skill to every project. Watch us build at PCL.com.

About DCI Engineers
DCI Engineers is a nationally accredited and recognized structural and civil engineering firm with additional specialties in industrial, bridge, right-of-way and sustainability services. Founded in 1988, DCI Engineers employs more than 350 engineering, technical, and support staff in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, California, Texas, Alaska, Colorado, Montana, Delaware, Pennsylvania and New York. As a signatory firm of the SE2050 Commitment, DCI aims for net zero embodied carbon structural systems by 2050. For more information, visit dci-engineers.com.