Lexington, KY (July 19, 2024) – The Central Bank Center, owned by Lexington Center Corporation and managed by Oak View Group, is proud to announce a significant milestone by earning a Silver Certification from the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program, administered by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC).  

In April of 2022, Central Bank Center reopened following a $310 million expansion. This project included over 10 years of planning and designing a premier destination that reduced an ecological footprint and preserved resources for future generations. 

"Achieving this certification was one of the primary objectives from the project's inception," said Bill Owen, former President & CEO of Lexington Center Corporation. "I am very pleased that we reached the Silver level, thus exceeding that objective. This certification further distinguishes Central Bank Center as a top-notch facility." 

The LEED Silver certification ensures buildings adhere to high standards and exemplify measurable strategies across various categories, such as water efficiency, material and resource usage, and innovation. 

“As a firm committed to carbon reduction through our projects and business practices, we are delighted that the renovation of Central Bank Center has been recognized with LEED Silver status,” said Andrzej Czech, Principal at NBBJ, lead architect on the project.  “Working with local firm EOP, we were able to retain the iconic nature of the building and celebrate its importance to the people of Kentucky by utilizing the existing structure, while also making a positive environmental impact by prioritizing the use of local and low-emitting materials, daylighting strategies, and efficient water and waste management.” 

Central Bank Center has implemented an all-LED lighting strategy, significantly enhancing energy efficiency. The facility received excellent ratings in the innovation category due to the implementation of an ongoing Purchasing and Waste Policy, as well as a Green Cleaning Policy, ensuring the use of sustainable materials and cleaning resources. Additionally, the installation of low-flow fixtures has reduced indoor water use by 35%. 

“The Board of the Lexington Center Corporation extends its gratitude to past Board members, especially Bill Owen, Ron Carmichael, and all others involved in our recent renovation, for their efforts in achieving this level of LEED certification,” said Dr. Karen Hill, Board Chair. “This is yet another way we aim to showcase our dedication to excellence in all aspects." 

“This recognition reaffirms Central Bank Center and Oak View Group’s commitment to sustainability,” said Brian Sipe, General Manager. “This is more than just a benchmark for sustainability; it signifies our commitment to creating healthier, more efficient spaces. This not only benefits the environment but also strengthens our community by fostering responsible growth and improving the well-being of all residents."  

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About Central Bank Center 

Located in Lexington, Kentucky, the Lexington Center Corporation (LCC) is a not-for-profit 501c3 corporate agency of the Lexington Fayette Urban County Government. It was established in 1974 to manage and maintain Rupp Arena at Central Bank Center, the Central Bank Center (formerly Lexington Convention Center), Triangle Park, and the Lexington Opera House. One of the nation’s most storied entertainment destinations, Central Bank Center venues collectively welcome an average of 1.3 million patrons annually. 

 

The Central Bank Center holds over 200 meetings, trade shows, and special events annually. It just completed a transformative $310 million expansion, featuring a dramatic, light-filled architectural design that offers over 200,000 SF of flexible meeting and event space. For more, visit www.centralbankcenter.com or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. 

 

About Oak View Group 

Oak View Group (OVG) is the global leader in live experience venue development, management, premium hospitality services, and 360-degree solutions for a collection of world-class owned venues and a client roster of arenas, convention centers, music festivals, performing arts centers, and cultural institutions. Founded by Tim Leiweke and Irving Azoff in 2015, OVG is the leading developer of major new venues either open or under development across four continents. Visit OakViewGroup.com, and follow OVG on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X