New Search
Irreversible or Irretrievable <br />Commitment of Resources <br />Construction of the new federal courthouse would require the commitment of land for the <br />facility. Both alternative sites are located on developed blocks within an urban area. The <br />proposed use is consistent with zoning regulations and would represent the highest and best use <br />of the selected site. The new building would also require commitment of air space that is <br />currently not occupied. <br />Nonrenewable materials such as concrete, steel, asphalt, and other building materials would be <br />required for construction. Fossil fuels would be consumed during construction for operation of <br />equipment and after construction for heating and other facility operations. Fossil fuel <br />consumption may be lower in the new facility than under current operating conditions, due to <br />consolidation of court functions and improvements in energy conservation practices and <br />materials. <br />New Federal Courthouse 159 Final EIS <br />