3. The Javits Center Replaced All 6,000 Panes of Glass on its Facade

The Javits Center used to be known as the “Darth Vader of the Hudson River,” jokes Rick Brown, Chief Engineer at the Javits Center, when the building was the number one killer of birds in New York City. The five year renovation included an entire replacement of the glass of the building. 6,000 fritted, bird-friendly planes of glass were installed, which are less reflected and tinted in blue so the birds will see the building. The glass replacement reduced bird kills at the Javits Center by 90% and for its efforts, the convention center received an award from the Audubon Society.