Architects seek LEED credentials as recession drags on (Wichita)

Wichita is home to 128 LEED-accredited architects, engineers and contractors following a rush during the past five years by the construction industry to prepare for the expected boom in green buildings.

But aside from work by governmental entities — particularly the federal government — LEED projects are relatively difficult to come by during the down market. The private sector, executives say, has shown little interest in investing in some of the sustainable construction design methods necessary for LEED-certified buildings.

That’s not to say that won’t change when more cash returns to the economy.

“It’s an emerging initiative, and it’s being driven by publicly funded projects,” says Mike Grier, CEO of Martin K. Eby Construction Co. Inc. “In better times, private owners may choose to invest in the added costs up front to save on utility bills, but right now, we’re not seeing that as often — particularly with the lack of private projects.”

But the weakness in demand hasn’t stopped architects and contractors from seeking out LEED accreditation.

Read the full story in the Wichita Business Journal.