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Dr. Kiran C. Patel Center for Global Solutions
In line with the University of South Florida's commitment to sustainable, healthy communities, the U.S. Green Building Council certified the Dr. Kiran C. Patel Center for Global Solutions building as a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold facility.
Visitors to the building note how its design represents the University's role in solving sustainability problems, and its particular strength in the area of water solutions. The building's wave-like lines are reminiscent of flowing water, with an open feel that welcomes the global community. The diverse and multicultural photographs that adorn the building's lobby represent the broad global constituencies that USF serves.
The building converges global research and education by strategically co-locating USF's global initiatives, including USF World, the Patel College of Global Sustainability, Education Abroad, and other administrative offices.
USF Initiative
Reduce heat islands (themal gradient differences between developed and undeveloped areas) to minimize the impact on microclimate and human and wildlife habitat.
Design Approach
In order to reduce the heat island effect at the Patel Center, the roof and hardscape were designed to incorporare materials amd techniques that prevent the accumulation of heat. These include a gravel pathway system, using materials with a Solar Reflective Index (SRI) greater than 29, and a partially shaded hardscape. The low sloping roof of the building uses roofing material with an SRI value of 91 for 97% of the total Project Roof Area.
Did you know?
The heat island effect leads to impaired water quality. Hot pavement and rooftop surfaces transfer their excess heat to stormwater, which then drains into storm sewers and raises water temperatures as it is released into streams, rivers, ponds and lakes. Rapid temperature changes can be stressful to aquatic ecosystems.
4202 East Fowler Ave., CGS101
Tampa, FL 33620 USA
Office Location: CGS204
Phone: (813) 974-8368
Directions
View a map of the campus.
From the East: Take I-4 west to exit 9/I-75 north. Travel north on I-75 for 3.8 miles to exit 265/Fowler Ave. Head west on Fowler Ave. 4.4 miles to the university's main entrance at Leroy Collins Blvd. Make a right at Alumni Dr. and another right at USF Genshaft Dr., which will bring you to the parking lot for the Kiran C. Patel Center for Global Solutions (CGS).
From the West/Tampa International Airport (TPA): Take I-275 north to exit 45B/1-4 east. Travel east on I-4 for 8.1 miles to exit 9/1-75 north. Travel north on I-75 for 3.8 miles to exit 265/Fowler Ave. Head west on Fowler Ave. 4.4 miles to the university's main entrance at Leroy Collins Blvd. Make a right at Alumni Dr. and another right at USF Genshaft Dr., which will bring you to the parking lot for the Kiran C. Patel Center for Global Solutions (CGS).
Parking
Visitors parking on the USF Tampa campus are required to purchase a daily parking permit from Parking and Transportation Services. Your permit will enable you to park in visitor parking lots on the USF Tampa Campus. Visitor Parking Permits | Visitor Parking Map