Golden 1 Credit Union Center

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

Golden 1 Credit Union Center, home of the Sacramento Kings, is a 675,000 square foot arena and entertainment venue that seats 17,500 for basketball games. And, achieving LEED Platinum certification, it became the first indoor sports venue to earn the U.S. Green Building Council’s highest level of recognition.

“From the outset, the Kings wanted a facility that would set them apart technologically and would serve as a catalyst for other sustainable development in the community,” said Gaurav Joshi, Turner project manager. “We worked closely with the Kings, and AECOM to realize that vision and deliver a surprisingly intimate, personal fan experience supported by the latest technology and of course, an emphasis on green features—particularly on-site energy generation.”

“A rooftop solar array and nearby supporting solar field combine to generate more than 12 megawatts of energy and support the arena’s goal of being both carbon and grid neutral,” explained Eric Lynch, project engineer and project LEED manager, noting that although the project team had initially set its sights on LEED Gold, they were able to achieve Platinum. “For example, we got an extra point because we were able to source all our metal stud framing 10 miles from the jobsite – well within the 500 mile radius for regionally sourced materials. We were also able to use wood harvested nearby in Oregon. And because we’re in California, where water use reduction is critical, the project features water efficient landscaping and living walls with local, drought-resistant flora. ”

Additional regionally sourced materials include precast made from San Benito sand and sierra limestone, which also add architectural interest, reflecting the natural palette of the landscape. “Another unique feature of the grounds is a series of hydroponic gardens that may grow food for on-site concessions,” added Eric. “And of course, electric vehicle charging stations, a bike valet, and access to public transportation are all important for making the fan and visitor experience convenient and seamless.

Noting that even the façade’s perforated panels feature cut-outs in the shape of leaves and trees, underscoring the arena’s green identity, Gaurav added, “Sacramento is known as ‘the City of Trees.’ Showcasing that reverence and respect for the natural world is a big part of what the city, and the Kings, wanted to accomplish with the arena.”

With seating for 17,500 fans—a number that grows to 19,000 for concerts—the arena also features 36 luxury suites, 48 loft-style suites, multiple clubs, skyboxes, concessions featuring ‘farm-to-fork’ fare, and a public plaza that includes a grassy amphitheater and tree-lined seating areas.