Battery Park City Authority: Green Retrofitting & Environmental Efficiency Now - Spring

Advisor: Tanya Heikkila

This report evaluates strategies for retrofitting existing residential buildings in Battery Park City to improve environmental performance and resource efficiency. Prepared for the Battery Park City Authority (BPCA), the study focuses on adapting existing buildings to meet modern green building standards while supporting BPCA’s broader mission of creating an environmentally responsible urban community. While newly constructed buildings in Battery Park City have already incorporated sustainable design principles, older residential structures have not yet adopted similar practices. The report examines the concept of “green retrofitting,” defined as upgrading existing buildings to reduce environmental impacts, enhance energy efficiency, and improve indoor environmental quality. Through literature review, stakeholder interviews, and analysis of building performance data, the study evaluates how retrofitting can contribute to energy savings, improved health conditions for residents, and reduced operational costs.

The report identifies five key areas for improvement in residential buildings: energy efficiency, indoor environmental quality, conservation of materials and resources, building operations and maintenance, and water conservation. It reviews available technologies and practices—such as energy-efficient lighting, advanced ventilation systems, recycled construction materials, and water-saving fixtures—and conducts cost-benefit analyses to assess their feasibility. The findings show that many retrofitting measures offer relatively short payback periods while delivering long-term environmental and financial benefits. The report concludes with policy recommendations encouraging BPCA to develop a comprehensive retrofitting strategy, promote financial incentives, and implement educational programs for building managers and residents. By demonstrating that green retrofitting is both practical and economically viable, the study argues that upgrading existing buildings can significantly advance sustainability goals in dense urban environments.

Learn more about the MPA-ESP Capstone Workshop.