Jackson State is going green in a big way, creating a “Green Corridor” that could serve as a model for Mississippi’s capital city.
The university already has been recognized for its School of Engineering building, which Engineering building, which is an excellent example of sustainable design. The building is one of the greenest structures on campus because of its light sensors and the use of rainwater for an irrigation system.
Yet, the building is surrounded by crumbling infrastructure and broken storm water drainage systems that are prevalent throughout Jackson. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has entered into a consent decree with the city, requiring Jackson to fix the systems by 2030.
“JSU is positioned to be at the forefront of innovation for creative and environmentally sound solutions to the problems,” said Dr. Mukesh Kumar, interim director of Urban and Regional Planning Programs. “It is our desire to expand upon the current green technologies in the School of Engineering building and create an educational venue that significantly enhances the surroundings.
The first step is a digital simulation of the plan. Kumar, JSUTV Production Manager Keith Collins, Heather Wilcox of the Center for University-Based Development and Marlin King of the Department of Facilities and Construction Management proposed the simulation for the 2014 Presidential Creative Awards and won.
The video will convey the impact of the Green Corridor, which will feature a rain garden, convertible parking lots and an outdoor green classroom. The video will demonstrate how rainwater can be collected and be used for irrigation and other green features. It also will show the measurement of impervious area, air quality and water quality.
