A building to be constructed in downtown Omaha is incorporating specific features that can make the structure less hazardous to migratory birds.
"We recognize there are building design elements that are proven to reduce bird collisions," said Robert Jones, chief administrative officer of the Gavilon Group, L.L.C. "To help minimize collision risks, we plan to incorporate low to mid-reflective, tinted glass with gradient frit detail or solid glazing. In addition, the current design does not include windowed courtyards or other design traps that may draw birds toward a glass wall.
Finally, we will be working with the city of Omaha on its landscape design and will take into consideration exterior elements, such as nearby trees and lighting, which may increase the risk of bird collisions."
Finally, we will be working with the city of Omaha on its landscape design and will take into consideration exterior elements, such as nearby trees and lighting, which may increase the risk of bird collisions."
 |
| Architectural rendition of pending Gavilon building; (Courtesy image). |
This information was in response to an email sent to company officials,
with comments based upon an architectural rendering of the structure,
which seemed to indicate features that could be a threat to migratory
birds.
Further details were also provided, from the "site design team."The site plan "submittal package" provided to the Planning Department of the city of Omaha said: “Each
of the mitigating factors are supported by the site plan submittal package, including the
digital samples for fritted glass, and coloration of the curtainwall,
storefront, and spandrel glazing systems. The site plan also clearly
supports that there are no windowed courtyards,
and that we have worked to balance the City’s reasonable requirements
for a pedestrian-friendly streetscape without planting an overabundance
of trees at the site perimeter.
"In reading through The Audubon Society
of Minnesota’s Bird Safe Building Guidelines
of 2010, the
building voluntarily incorporates several of the design considerations
that are suggested, all while balancing a consistent streetscape design
that promotes pedestrian activity. There is no planned
“beacon” or night illuminated atrium for the building, and no red lights
approved or planned.
"Additionally,
the lower two levels of the building, which it appears has the highest
incidence rate of bird collisions, utilizes multiple materials to 'break
up' the glass façade, including perforated metal panel, architectural louvers, and a strong precast base. The south elevation of the building has no trees and landscape
areas very close to the building, which will further discourage bird
collisions. Additionally, the upper levels of the building will utilize
a low-to mid-reflective glazing system, balancing
the concerns about glass that is either too transparent or too
reflective. A fritted glass detail is also incorporated in the larger
glass facades at the trading level to further break up any unintentional
reflectivity of the outside environment.”
"We are proud to be constructing our new world headquarters building in downtown Omaha and strive to be a responsible neighbor," Jones said.
Gavilon, a commodity management and trading firm, is building their new corporate headquarters on a city block which was formerly the Omaha World-Herald building. It had most recently been a green space. The trees were apparently transplanted prior to ground work being started.