Wedoany.com Report-Oct. 16, Graycor Construction Company has completed construction of Amazon’s first owner-occupied mass timber distribution center, a 171,000-square-foot facility on a 39-acre site in Elkhart, Indiana. The hub, located near Elkhart Municipal Airport, will employ 200 Amazon workers.

The facility serves as a model for Amazon’s sustainability goals, incorporating eco-friendly features such as a rainwater collection system, a low-carbon concrete foundation, high-efficiency HVAC and plumbing systems, and energy-saving lighting. Amazon indicated that this design could be replicated globally to advance sustainable construction practices.

Daniel Mallory, Amazon’s vice president of global realty, stated: “We have experimented with and implemented a lot of sustainability initiatives over the years. DII5 continues that effort by taking a culmination of a lot of big ideas not just in how we operate our facilities, but in how we build them.”

The project, designed by ZGF with Atlantic AE serving as the architect of record, integrates innovative materials and technologies to reduce environmental impact while maintaining operational efficiency. The use of mass timber, a renewable building material, underscores the facility’s commitment to sustainable design.

Tim Hanifin, president of Graycor Construction, commented: “We’re proud to have woven sustainability features into the construction, demonstrating what’s possible when environmental responsibility and innovative construction come together.” He noted that the DII5 hub sets a new standard for warehouse design by prioritizing eco-conscious features.

The Elkhart distribution center is a significant step in Amazon’s broader strategy to incorporate sustainable practices into its global operations. The facility’s advanced systems, such as energy-efficient lighting and low-carbon materials, align with industry trends toward greener infrastructure.

This project highlights the potential for scalable, environmentally responsible construction in the logistics sector. By combining mass timber with advanced efficiency systems, the hub reduces its carbon footprint while supporting Amazon’s operational needs.

The completion of the Elkhart facility demonstrates the feasibility of integrating sustainable materials and technologies in large-scale industrial projects. It also strengthens the local economy by creating jobs and fostering innovation in construction practices.

Amazon’s investment in this hub reflects its commitment to balancing operational growth with environmental stewardship. The facility’s design and features position it as a potential blueprint for future distribution centers worldwide, promoting sustainability in the logistics industry.