Arch 201- Interstate 5, ( Traveler Relief Center).

          The proposal for this project, sited along Interstate 5 in southern San Diego, incorporates three different concepts into a single master plan unified by a sustainable design strategy that focuses on the utilization of renewable energy resources, passive lighting and cooling methods, and rainwater harvesting. The site consists of two large areas of land, one on each side of Interstate 5 that are to be integrated to serve the needs of highway drivers, truckers, and individuals utilizing public transportation.
The first concept, to be located on the east side of the highway and bordered by both the Pacific coast and Interstate 5, is a state-of-the-art traveler relief center designed from both a thorough programmatic and sustainability analysis. This concept aims to integrate a number of traveler support services into one facility, including a dine-in restaurant, fast food services, a convenient mart, bathroom and bathing facilities, a relaxation area, a media support area including free Wi-Fi and cell phone charging, bus stop facilities, a green space, playground, and a dog park. Furthermore, this concept aspires to take advantage of the mild and sunny San Diego weather by utilizing passive cooling strategies enabled by proper building position in regards to sun path, shading devices, and San Diego’s coastal breezes. Furthermore, the building will derive energy from solar power and utilize recycled rainwater. 
            The second concept involves a parking lot to be located on the west side of Interstate 5 that is connected to a covered pedestrian bridge that links the parking lot with the traveler relief center. The bridge design focuses on a sustainable roof that protects pedestrians from weather, permits natural lighting during the day, and supports a solar cell farm that provides energy for artificial night lighting. 
             Finally, the third concept entails the construction of a hydrogen station, for the purpose of fueling hydrogen cars and powering small electronics, at an off-site location in close proximity to the parking lot. The proposed liquid hydrogen based facility stores up “to 1500 gallons of liquid, which is vaporized and compressed to about 6000 pounds per square inch (about 400 bar).” With each individual pumping station holding up to forty kilograms of high-pressure hydrogen, the pump dispensing system “deliver[s] 5000 pounds per square inch” to a Hydrogen vehicle that utilizes fuel cells and mixed fuels, such as HCNG.  
               In conclusion, the full service hydrogen station and travel relief center master plan aims to transform San Diego’s Interstate 5 from a gas-guzzling, carbon emitting, environmental disaster area into a center for sustainable, zero carbon footprint, environment and traveler relief.