City of Eagle Pass International Bridge System Headquarters

On one of the nation’s busiest ports of entry, Eagle Pass’ first net-zero-ready civic facility creates a better experience for travelers and staff.

For the thousands of people who cross the border daily on the Rio Grande River pedestrian bridge, the new headquarters for the City of Eagle Pass International Bridge System is the first building they see entering the U.S. or the last building they see as they leave. Despite rising material costs and a difficult site, the integrated design team worked with the city to develop a welcoming, net-zero-energy facility that shaved $1.7 million from the budget, cut annual operational costs and demonstrated that cities like Eagle Pass can have the same type of high-performance facilities as larger, more prosperous cities.

On the narrow, sloping site, the design balances the functions and views with the reality of the blistering South Texas heat. An elevated, shaded pedestrian sidewalk softens the walk-up experience. Spaces are carved out of the building for different functions, from currency transfer to staff breaks. A covered deck with views of the river provides space for cross-cultural events, fulfilling a key priority for the city.

A mix of roof overhangs, window shading, and glazing percentages reduced the building’s energy load, without adding cost. Roof space was left clear for photovoltaic panels to completely offset energy use, and the HVAC system uses an efficient variable refrigerant flow (VRF) system. The result illustrates that wise use of taxpayer money and energy efficient buildings can be completely aligned.