The new multi-use building serves as an office, contact station for campers, visitor and educational center, and public restroom facility. Trails leading from the center will connect with the camping area of the park, allowing visitors to walk to park programs.

“As with all new buildings within our parks and forests, we have constructed this facility using the latest green technology and materials,” DCNR Secretary John C. Oliver stated. “From the lighting to the lumber, we have made design and construction choices that use less energy and water and incorporate recycled materials.”

The building features energy-efficient office lighting; large operable windows for maximum daylight and natural ventilation; low or no volatile organic compound stains and paints; certified lumber; water-conservation fixtures and measures; and walls, floors, ceilings, and furniture made from recycled materials.

The heating and cooling system of the building uses a water-source closed-loop geothermal heat pump. The heat pump makes use of the geothermal energy stored in Lake Jean as the transfer medium.

Hampton Bays of Kingston was the general contractor on the $1.7 million project. Bognet Inc. of Hazleton handled the plumbing and hvac work, and K.C. Larson of Montoursville was the electrical contractor. Construction began in September 2000 and was completed earlier this spring.

Publication date: 05/13/2002