Destiny USA hosts Sustainable Speaker Series with Upstate USGBC

The Upstate Chapter of the U.S. Green Building Council recently held a discussion of the LEED Gold certification of Destiny USA at the facility. Destiny USA is one of the largest LEED Gold certified retail commercial buildings in the country, and 3rd in the world. Melissa Perry, Destiny USA director of sustainability, went over the process that resulted in LEED Gold certification of the 1.3 million s/f addition. There was also a tour of the addition. The presentation, which began at 7:30 a.m., was part of the chapter's Sustainable Speakers Series and included a continental breakfast. Destiny USA is a new 2.4 million s/f destination that includes Carousel Center, a super regional shopping center already attracting 20 million annual visits. The new expansion will mix all types of retail including luxury outlet tenants, restaurants and entertainment. New stores will continue to open over the next several months with a rebranding event scheduled for August 2, 2012. A three-story glass atrium will provide perfect weather year round. This destination is designed to attract tourists from throughout the U.S. and Canada, destination shoppers and extend the draw of regional visitors beyond a typical trade area. Oxford Economics has projected an annual visitation of over 29 million after the first phase of development is complete, making it the second most visited shopping center in the country, according to Travel and Leisure magazine. It is one of the largest LEED Gold certified retail commercial buildings in the country. 1,600 full time jobs will also be created.