Sustainable Industrial Development: Overcoming Complexities at The Broadway

By: TrueNorth Steel

Project Overview: Broadway Industrial Facility

The Broadway is a 19,600-square-yard industrial site. Located in Northeast Minneapolis, MN, it sits within an “Opportunity Zone.” This zone promotes investment and job creation in low-income areas, fostering sustainable industrial development. This large adaptive-reuse, urban site needed a robust stormwater management and irrigation plan. TrueNorth Steel provided a solution. They supplied a 78″ & 72″ Aluminized Type II perforated pipe and an 84″ solid wall, polymer-coated irrigation cistern. This was for the developers, ALCAT Broadway LLC.

Overcoming Challenges: Size and Timelines

One unique element of this project was its size, ensuring sustainable industrial development. This created complexities. To illustrate, the 78″ system holds about 10% more water than an Olympic-sized swimming pool. Furthermore, demanding timelines during peak season proved challenging. Approximately 50 truckloads of materials traveled over 320 miles. This was between Fargo, ND and Minneapolis, MN. Despite this, TrueNorth Steel’s team succeeded. They fabricated and delivered this project on schedule.

Success through Collaboration and Efficiency

TrueNorth Steel and its partners met the requirements of this development, supporting sustainable industrial development. It is the only new construction industrial facility within Minneapolis city limits. This success was due to several factors. TrueNorth Steel maintained close communication with all involved. They also demonstrated attention to detail and efficiency in the shop.

Sustainability at its Core

This project champions sustainable industrial development, showcasing steel’s inherent sustainability. Steel’s high recyclability and durability contribute to the project’s long-term environmental impact. Beyond this, the project incorporates additional eco-conscious features like an energy-efficient building envelope, gray-water irrigation, and low-impact materials. These combined efforts position it as a strong contender for LEED Certification, the globally recognized benchmark for green building design.

A Model for Future Development

The Broadway project serves as a model for future industrial development. It demonstrates that sustainability and economic growth can go hand-in-hand. By prioritizing eco-friendly practices and utilizing innovative solutions, this project sets a new standard for responsible construction in urban areas. It’s a testament to the power of collaboration, forward-thinking design, and a commitment to building a greener future.