The hotel originally was constructed in 1991 and expanded in 1999. The current renovation, which took place over the last two years, was conducted as the building continued operations. “It was an ongoing renovation, done floor by floor, wing by wing,” Garb says.

Attaining LEED certification is particularly challenging for hotels, as the property manager cannot control the actions of the guests, who can easily engage in wasteful activities.

Among the sustainable techniques and features incorporated were the use of low volatile organic compound (VOC) paints and carpeting. Housekeeping was a major component, with some actions that are pure common sense, such as “making sure lights are off,” Garb says. “We’re also using environmentally friendly cleaning supplies.”

Future buildings also will pursue LEED certification, Garb reports. These include a 123-unit multifamily in Secaucus, to be complete in 2012, a 116-unit residential property on Meadowlands Parkway in Secaucus, and a 500-plus unit building in Weehawken, yet to break ground. The company’s 400 Plaza Drive headquarters also is LEED-certified.