Balfour Beatty-Metcon JV Achieves Platinum Envision Verification for RDU Park Economy 3 Expansion
Balfour Beatty, in partnership with Metcon, proudly announces that the Park Economy 3 Expansion at Raleigh-Durham International Airport has achieved Platinum Envision verification from the Institute for Sustainable Infrastructure (ISI). This prestigious recognition represents the highest level of achievement for sustainable infrastructure development.
The Envision framework, developed by ISI, evaluates infrastructure projects based on their contributions to sustainability across environmental, social, and economic indicators. Achieving Platinum status demonstrates the project team’s commitment to innovation, environmental stewardship, and long-term community value.
The Park Economy 3 Expansion enhances airport access while promoting sustainability goals, aligning with RDU’s broader environmental initiatives. This milestone underscores the success of collaborative efforts between the Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority, Balfour Beatty, and Metcon in delivering high-performance, resilient infrastructure.
As the construction partner for Raleigh-Durham International Airport’s transformative Park Economy 3 Expansion, the joint venture between Balfour Beatty and Metcon worked closely with RS&H, North Carolina State University, and the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality to integrate cutting-edge sustainability practices into the development of the 7,000-space parking facility.
“This prestigious certification reflects our steadfast commitment to sustainable construction,” said Trent Johnson, Balfour Beatty’s operations director in the Carolinas. “The collaboration between our team, the Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority, and our partners highlights how innovation and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand to deliver high-performing infrastructure.”
The project earned Platinum Envision verification—the highest level of recognition from the Institute for Sustainable Infrastructure—making it the first airport project in North Carolina to receive this distinction and only the third infrastructure development in the state to be Envision verified.
Notable Sustainable Features Include:
- Installation of advanced solar panel arrays and EV charging stations
- Eco-conscious site design aimed at reducing environmental disturbance
- Implementation of North Carolina’s first submerged gravel wetland stormwater management system
Michael Landguth, president and CEO of the Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority, expressed pride in the team’s achievement. “This Platinum certification underscores RDU’s dedication to sustainable growth,” he said. “The Park Economy 3 Expansion not only enhances our capacity to serve travelers but also stands as a benchmark for sustainable airport development nationwide.”
The project exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to infrastructure, proving that environmental stewardship and operational efficiency can successfully coexist in modern airport design.
