Buildings & Design
Data center noise lawsuits test limits of local ordinances
Microsoft is being sued over low-frequency noise from its data center in Mount Pleasant, Wisconsin, with plaintiffs claiming that dBA monitoring cannot capture this frequency band. This year, there have been multiple noise lawsuits targeting data center operations rather than construction, and legal experts believe such lawsuits could become an emerging field.
Gas appliance ban in Oak Park, Illinois, upheld by federal judge
The Village of Oak Park, Illinois, U.S., banned gas appliances in new buildings starting in 2023, leading to a lawsuit by gas appliance supporters. Federal District Court Judge Franklin Valderrama issued a summary judgment last month in favor of the Village of Oak Park, ruling that the ban does not constitute a conflict with the Energy Policy and Conservation Act.
Steamy-hot subways are a problem in New York. They could become a clean-energy asset.
The Brooklyn Bridge-City Hall subway station in New York City averaged 96 degrees Fahrenheit last summer. Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Governor Kathy Hochul announced a study to install the first thermal energy network (TEN) in a U.S. transit system, capturing subway waste heat and storing it in geothermal wells for use in heating nearby municipal buildings during winter. The $800,000 feasibility study will begin this fall, and if viable, design work is expected to start in early 2027.
NYC building failure triggered citywide inspection campaign
On July 7, a structural failure occurred during the renovation of the former Pfizer building in Manhattan, prompting the New York City Department of Buildings to issue stop-work orders on multiple office-to-residential conversion projects. Experts say that while such heightened inspections are a routine response, the scale and scope this time are unprecedented and could slow project progress and drive up costs.
How modern roofing and waterproofing solutions protect historic structures
Historic buildings, as long-term public investments, face complex challenges in preservation, including material aging, water intrusion, and maintenance backlogs. Through modern roofing and waterproofing technologies, such as Siplast's applications at Fallingwater and the Mecklenburg County Courthouse, their service life can be extended without compromising architectural character. This article analyzes key issues such as moisture management and continuous operation during construction, and points out that historic preservation should be integrated into urban infrastructure strategies.
Beyond the stadium: What the World Cup can teach every community about first impressions
During the World Cup, tourists' first impressions are often formed outside the stadium. This article explores the relationship between community infrastructure, public spaces, and tourist experiences, and why investing in the local environment can serve residents while also preparing for future opportunities.
Heat pumps, other energy-efficient appliances could cut energy costs by more than $100B a year: report
The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) released a report on Wednesday stating that if a series of policies and reforms are implemented, the U.S. could reduce energy costs by approximately $215 billion annually, accumulating savings of $4.8 trillion by 2050. Among these, upgrades to high-efficiency heat pumps and other building equipment are major sources of energy savings, while also reducing peak electricity demand by 20%.
California return-to-office mandate puts state buildings to the test
California Governor Newsom's executive order requiring state employees to work on-site at least four days a week took effect on July 1, affecting approximately 109,000 employees. Experts point out that existing office space may not meet employees' diverse needs for focus, collaboration, and social interaction, while unions and audit reports question the policy's rationale and cost-effectiveness.
Ann Arbor Voters Approve 'Sustainable Energy Utility': What Comes Next?
Ann Arbor, Michigan, voters approved a ballot measure to create a sustainable energy utility (SEU) that will supplement DTE Energy's service, focusing on rooftop solar and battery storage. The SEU aims to boost local clean energy and resilience, with operations expected to start within two years.
Maryland County’s Landmark Air Conditioning Law Redefines Tenant Rights
Nearly five years after tenant advocate Victoria Price testified about unsafe heat in her building, Montgomery County, Maryland, passed a law mandating air conditioning in many rentals. The rule, effective since 2020, requires landlords to provide cooling capable of reaching 80°F from June 1 to Sept. 30. Implementation faced early challenges, but officials report compliance and lessons for other jurisdictions.