Along with three new residence halls designed by Mackey Mitchell Architects, Miami University of Ohio is also constructing a new $23 million geothermal plant , thereby converting 40 percent of its campus to geothermal energy. According to the university’s director of energy systems, construction of the plant will save the university approximately $1 million annually in operating and maintenance costs. The university coupled their utility plan with their long-range housing plan. Instead of burning coal to generate steam, a geothermal system pulls heat out of the ground via wells resulting in a cleaner “green” system. In addition to environmental and financial benefits, the project will also  provide educational opportunities for students.

Mackey Mitchell is part of the design/build team for the new residence halls along with CR Architects and Whiting Turner. Mackey Mitchell’s project team includes Dan Mitchell, Gwynn Zivic, Dan Schneider, Tom Young, John Brown and Clay Phillips.