The annual awards program celebrates organizations and products that demonstrate measurable progress in energy efficiency, environmental performance, and sustainability. Winners are selected across categories such as product innovation, project implementation, and organizational leadership, with entries evaluated by an independent panel of industry experts.

BirdSmart® Bird Safe Glass stands out for its dual performance: helping prevent bird collisions while maintaining high thermal efficiency. The glass features a first-surface, laser-etched dot pattern designed to deter birds, combined with a Solarban® solar control low-emissivity coating on the second surface. This combination allows buildings to meet environmental goals without compromising energy performance.

Manufactured using a laser etching process, BirdSmart® glass offers a more environmentally conscious alternative to traditional bird-safe solutions. It can be applied to multiple glass types, including Starphire Ultra-Clear® and Acuity® low-iron glass, as well as tinted options, and remains compatible with all Solarban® coatings.

Importantly, the product meets both current and emerging building code requirements for bird safety. Despite its added functionality, it does not negatively affect key performance metrics such as Visible Light Transmittance (VLT) or Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC). Testing has also confirmed that it does not interfere with the performance of Solarban® low-e coatings.

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The canopy employs low-iron glass, chosen for its exceptional clarity and minimal greenish tint, ensuring unobstructed views for commuters. To enhance performance and safety, the glass is treated with a ceramic frit pattern, which serves multiple purposes:

• Solar Control: The frit pattern reduces solar heat gain, contributing to energy efficiency.
• Bird Safety: The pattern helps prevent bird collisions, addressing ecological concerns.
• Structural Integrity: The fritted glass provides shading in the summer and protection from harsh winds in the winter, all while diffusing natural daylight across the expanded platforms.

This combination of materials and design reflects a commitment to both aesthetic appeal and environmental responsibility.

Construction began in August 2025, with an expected completion date in 2029. The project is estimated to cost $440 million. This redevelopment is part of a broader initiative to modernize Chicago’s transit infrastructure, ensuring that historic stations like State/Lake continue to serve the city efficiently and inclusively.

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