John Rebchook is a former Rocky Mountain News reporter with more than 30 years of experience in writing and communications... Officials gathered today to celebrate the ceremonial groundbreaking for Suncor’s refinery $25 million office building in Commerce City.
The attending the ceremony for the 75,000-square-foot, two-story building at Brighton Boulevard and York Street included Commerce City Mayor Paul Natale, Ward I City Councilman Dominick Moreno and City Manager Jerry Flannery, as well as a number of people from the community and officials from the company.
The energy efficient building is designed to accommodate about 275 employees and contractors.
New road improvements are expected to incorporate turn lanes and curbs, improve drainage in the area and add parking spots for 350 vehicles. The landscaping plan calls for about 2,000 shrubs, 225 trees and 230 perennials on the property.
Colorado’s only petroleum refinery
“This project underscores Suncor’s long-term commitment to our neighbors, the Commerce City community and the state of Colorado,” said John Gallagher, vice president of refining, U.S., for Suncor. “It also exemplifies our commitment to the people who work hard to ensure the safe and reliable operation of Colorado’s only petroleum refinery. This new office building will be a facility they not only can be proud of but also enjoy working in every day.”
Natale welcomed the building.
“This investment demonstrates Suncor Energy’s ongoing commitment and partnership to build a ‘Quality Community for a Lifetime’ here in Commerce City,” Natale said. “One of the reasons this project is so exciting is because it will vastly improve the southwestern gateway to the city. Over the last 24 months, the city has worked with Suncor, and other property owners to improve the image of the area and set a standard for future public improvements that will benefit everyone who travels the area.”
The new building was designed by local firm Intergroup Architects. The project currently includes plans for achieving Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Silver Certification. LEED sets standards for design and performance in five key areas of human and environmental health, including sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environment quality. Colorado-based Adolfson & Peterson Construction has been named general contractor. Construction is expected to begin in the coming weeks, with completion of the project scheduled by the end of 2012.
Contact John Rebchook at JRCHOOK@gmail.com
