eDesign Dynamics (EDD) gave a tour of the Javits Center Green Roof to practicing engineers on the afternoon of August 14th, 2024. The tour featured EDD President Franco Montalto, PE, PhD, who has led multiple research projects through Drexel University discerning the hydrological and habitat benefits offered by the nearly 7-acre green roof, one of the largest in the United States.
The tour covered three main green infrastructure components: the extensive green roof, the urban farm, and the food forest/orchard. Dr. Montalto provided insight into the co-benefits of the roof’s green infrastructure to mitigate urban heat island effect, manage stormwater, and augment urban biodiversity.
Dr. Montalto’s research has shown the Javits Center Green Roof mitigates nearly 7 million gallons of stormwater runoff annually while reducing heat flux into the building by 46%. The rooftop also functions as a wildlife sanctuary for dozens of local and migratory bird species, several bat species, and thousands of insects.
