George W. Bush Presidential Center

The George W. Bush Presidential Center, located in Dallas, Texas, was completed in 2009 and features Black Locust Lumber's boardwalks. The project aimed to create a sustainable and aesthetically pleasing landscape, with boardwalks providing functional and durable pathways throughout the center's grounds.

Project Partners

Whitener & Jackson, Inc.

Whitener & Jackson, Inc. is a distinguished general contracting firm based in Manassas, Virginia. Established in 1947, the company has a rich history of providing high-quality commercial construction services in the D.C. Metropolitan area.

Robert A.M. Stern Architects (RAMSA)

Robert A.M. Stern Architects (RAMSA) is a distinguished architectural firm based in New York City, renowned for its diverse portfolio encompassing residential, commercial, and institutional projects.

Used in this project

Black Locust Boardwalks

Project Name: George W. Bush Presidential Center
Location: Dallas, Texas, USA
Year: 2009
Architect: Robert A.M. Stern Architects
Landscape Architect: Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates Inc.
Firm (Contractor): Whitener and Jackson, Inc.
Product Used: Boardwalks

Awards and Recognition

• LEED Platinum

Press 

• Project Overview on Michael Van Valkenburgh's Website
• Building and Park Grounds

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Completed in 2009, the George W. Bush Presidential Center in Dallas, Texas, represents an extraordinary blend of history, education, and sustainable landscape design. Designed by Robert A.M. Stern Architects, with landscape architecture by the renowned firm Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates Inc., the Center serves as a library, museum, and policy institute, but it is also recognized for its deep commitment to environmental responsibility. The outdoor areas were carefully planned to reflect Texas’ natural heritage while also creating a modern, functional, and enduring campus environment. One of the most distinctive features of the project is its extensive use of boardwalks constructed from Black Locust Lumber. The choice of locust wood was intentional and forward-looking. Unlike traditional hardwoods that often require chemical treatment or are sourced unsustainably, the black locust tree provides a naturally durable and rot-resistant material. Historically valued for its strength and longevity, black locust has long been recognized as one of the best alternatives to tropical hardwoods. Its use at the Presidential Center not only reduces the reliance on imported woods but also ensures that the boardwalks will withstand heavy public use, changing weather conditions, and the test of time without compromising environmental integrity. Installed by Whitener and Jackson, Inc., the boardwalks guide visitors through the expansive grounds, creating a seamless and inviting connection between the buildings and the surrounding landscape. The warm tones of locust wood provide a natural contrast to the stone and architectural lines of the Center, softening the overall aesthetic and harmonizing with the carefully curated plantings and green spaces. More than just functional pathways, the boardwalks embody the project’s vision of integrating sustainability, accessibility, and beauty into every aspect of the design. The Presidential Center’s commitment to environmental leadership was formally recognized with a LEED Platinum certification, the highest rating awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council. The use of black locust in the landscape played a significant role in achieving this distinction. By selecting materials sourced from the locust tree, the project reduced its carbon footprint, minimized the need for chemical preservatives, and showcased the potential of renewable and durable wood species in large-scale institutional projects. Beyond its architectural and ecological achievements, the George W. Bush Presidential Center has become a landmark in Dallas, attracting visitors from around the world. While many come to explore its historical exhibits and educational programs, the design of the grounds ensures that every step of their journey is enriched by thoughtful landscaping and sustainable choices. The black locust boardwalks invite guests to experience the campus comfortably and safely, all while walking on a material that reflects centuries of proven durability and a forward-thinking commitment to responsible resource use. In many ways, the use of locust wood at the George W. Bush Presidential Center demonstrates how timeless natural materials can support modern sustainability goals. By embracing the strength and resilience of the black locust tree, the project sets a precedent for how public institutions can create functional, beautiful, and environmentally sound landscapes. The Center not only commemorates a presidential legacy but also stands as a lasting example of how sustainability and design excellence can be seamlessly woven together.