New York City

Designed in 1986 by I. M. Pei, the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center embarked on a major renovation project geared towards sustainability in 2010 that included a new green roof. At 6.75-acres the green roof is the largest of its kind in New York State and one of the largest in the country. Since its completion in 2014, the green roof has transformed into a wildlife sanctuary and is home to 27 bird species, including American Kestrels, herring gulls and northern mockingbirds, five bat species and thousands of honeybees.

Comprised of sedum plants from Syracuse, NY, the green roof absorbs up to 7 million gallons of storm water a year, saving it from running off into the Hudson River, and helps reduce energy consumption throughout the six-block convention center by insulating the building in the winter and cooling it during the summer. The green roof has reduced the building’s energy consumption by an impressive 26%. We will start our tour in the lobby, where we will learn about the history of the structure, as well as details about the recent renovation and sustainability efforts. Then we will head up to the roof to hear about the positive impacts of the green roof, while taking in amazing views of the Hudson River.

Tour is subject to weather conditions.