To achieve the goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2046, Facilities has implemented a strategy to update, replace and add infrastructure. These infrastructure updates have provided an opportunity for Facilities staff to meet with government officials to showcase the changes being made on campus. From geo-exchange to stormwater management efforts, Facilities is sharing it’s successes with stakeholders across New Jersey and beyond. 

In October, Ted Borer, Energy Plant Director, spoke about the once-in-a-century effort to transform the University’s energy infrastructure as a featured speaker at the NJ Business and Industry Association energy conference. Borer shared how the transition from steam to hot water is a key element of the University’s path to net zero emissions by 2046 with attendees from government, higher education, and industry.  

The Acting Commissioner of the NJ Department of Community Affairs (DCA) came to campus in November. Jacqueline Suarez met with Kyu Whang, Vice President of Facilities, and Dozie Ibeh, Associate Vice President of Capital Projects, for an overview of campus construction projects. She then toured some of the active construction sites, including the Princeton University Art Museum, Frist Health Center, and ES & SEAS, with Ibeh and Bill Bausmith, Executive Director of Construction. Suarez also toured the new TIGER plant with Tom McKnight, Executive Director of Campus Development.   

DCA is responsible for the state’s construction codes and reviews many of the University’s large-scale projects. Acting Commissioner Suarez recently stepped into her role following the passing of Lt. Governor and DCA Commissioner Sheila Oliver. The tour was an important opportunity to highlight the scale of the University’s historic growth and the value of the University's relationship with the department. 

On December 4, State Affairs partnered with Facilities, Athletics, and the Office of Community and Regional Affairs to host a meeting of the Green Infrastructure Committee of Jersey Water Works, an organization dedicated to transforming New Jersey’s water infrastructure, including reducing flooding from storms with increasing amounts of rainfall. This group of engineers, planners, community activists, state officials and nonprofit representatives was impressed by the University’s extensive investment in innovative planning and infrastructure for enhanced stormwater management. They will be a helpful resource moving forward as the state’s regulatory framework for stormwater management continues to evolve.