The U.S. General Services Administration was appropriated more than $5.5 billion under the Recovery Act to convert federal facilities into high-performance green buildings and construct energy-efficient federal buildings, courthouses, and land ports of entry.

Since the passage of the Recovery Act in 2009, the GSA says it has awarded construction projects to more than 500 companies, creating jobs in all 50 states, two territories, and the District of Columbia.

The agency anticipates that all federal buildings built or significantly upgraded under the program will achieve at least a USGBC LEED Silver certification.

The GSA Recovery Act projects include:

Austin, TX -- construction of a new energy-efficient courthouse, incorporating innovative features such as high-efficiency heating and cooling systems, extensive use of natural light, and a efficient "green" roof.

Philadelphia, PA -- the installation of solar panels and insulation on the roof of the Philadelphia Veterans Affairs Regional Office and Insurance Center.

St. Louis, MO -- renovation of the Goodfellow Federal Center, modernizing the 1941-vintage structure with advanced lighting systems, maximum daylight, a high-performance heating and cooling system, and solar hot water.