San Ysidro Land Port of Entry, the world’s busiest land port, is set to create a record in sustainability. Designed by architectural firm Miller Hull Partnership, the $395-million, redevelopment project will consist of three phases, each targeted to achieve LEED Platinum certification and achieve net zero energy in all occupied buildings, which will make San Ysidro the greenest border crossing in the world.

"To be able to design a completely new facility for the busiest border crossing in the world is a once in a lifetime opportunity. What is especially satisfying to me is knowing the positive impact we will have on the experience seen through the eyes of a visitor, as well as through the eyes of the officers who work there," says Craig Curtis, partner at Miller Hull and lead designer on the project. Miller Hull was selected to lead the project over nine other competing firms.

Sustainable elements include: a 700,000 gallon rainwater reclamation system; an inclusion of low-water using, native plants throughout the landscape; photovoltaic panels; a closed-loop, ground-coupled geoexchange system; radiant heating and cooling panels in the primary booths’ HVAC systems; and an operational design that will decrease idle time for automobiles and “tail pipe carbon.”

Phase one construction will commence in 2011 on northbound primary inspection lanes and booths, a northbound secondary inspection facilities, and these structures’ associated Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) canopies, a sustainable material that allows for the penetration of natural light to eliminate daytime artifical lighting needs. The spaces will feature four, 100-ft. masts that extend from a 725-ft. canopy to house security cameras, lighting, and air circulation capabilities.

Next, pedestrian walkways and buildings, bus lanes, and inspection booths will be constructed to reduce pedestrian wait time from an average of 90 minutes to 30 minutes, which helps to reduce operating costs and secure employee jobs; while a 400-space employee parking structure will be built during the third phase. Interstate 5 will be then be moved west, adjoining El Chaparral Land Point of Entry, Mexico’s border crossing facility.

“We have received a mandate from President Obama to set the bar for green buildings in this country,” says Maria Ciprazo, regional chief architect for the GSA, in a statement. “This border is the doorway into our country, so it's been vital to design a facility that is both welcoming and safe for all who work there.. Coupled with sustainable elements, the architects at Miller Hull have brought it all together and created a project that will benefit the larger San Ysidro border community.”