Albert Armendariz, Sr. United States Courthouse

Opened in 2010, El Paso's new federal courthouse was named in honor of the late El Paso judge and prominent civil rights leader Albert Armendariz Sr.. The explanation was: "Judge Armendariz's contributions to the advancement of civil rights helped change the landscape for Hispanics throughout America, and his legacy will forever be remembered and celebrated at (the) new federal courthouse." Higher-performing green qualities and innovative architecture helped the Courthouse to earn the 2010 Texas Downtown Association President's Award for Best New Construction. The Award recognizes excellence in new construction in downtown or commercial districts. Judges said they were impressed by the use of materials, which paid homage to the copper industry of El Paso and how the design of the building connected with the surrounding downtown. The building, certified as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design silver by the U.S. Green Building Council, incorporates computerized heating, ventilation and air conditioning; lighting and utility metering to conserve energy; window glazing; energy-efficient Energy Star products; as well as interior elements made from recycled materials, such as carpet, wall coverings, cork flooring, and ceiling tiles.