Chicago´s Sears Tower to get $350M green makeover

June 25 -- One of the most famous buildings in the world is getting a $350 million green makeover that its owners say is the "most significant sustainable modernization projects of an existing building ever undertaken."

Renovations on Sears Tower in Chicago will cut base building electricity use by 80% and create 3,600 jobs.

Plans are to replace all 16,000 single-pane windows, a move that will save up to 50% of the building´s heating energy. Mechanical systems that generate electricity, heating and cooling also will be upgraded, and elevators and escalators will be modernized, according to owners.

"Sears Tower, an iconic structure that defines the city’s skyline, will undergo a groundbreaking transformation that creates economic growth with positive impact on our environment," said John Huston of American Landmark Properties, which represents the buildings owners.

The project aims to cut water use by 40%, or 24 million gallons, per year.

Contact Waste & Recycling News senior reporter Jim Johnson at 937-964-1289 or jpjohnson@crain.com