Building Systems Group | Agricultural Business Center

The Wooten Company provided site work, landscaping, site utilities, plumbing, mechanical, electrical (including site lighting), and architectural services for the Johnston County Agricultural Building. The building is a total of 32,900 gross square feet and is located on twenty acres of rolling Johnston County farm land. The structure houses federal agencies of Rural Development, Soil Conservation and Farm Services. County Cooperative Extension Services occupy approximately 7,400 square feet. A 500-seat auditorium/ conference center is available for both the Federal and County functions. The entire building, including auditorium, incorporates data systems to allow for online classes from North Carolina State University and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The structure is designed and sited to provide a wooded view from the auditorium and office areas. Oriented on an east-west axis, south facing skylights provide solar heat gain and day lighting. The site incorporates sustainable design including water gardens, reuse water for irrigation and onsite water retention using existing land features.

The USDA agencies share conference, break, computer, and toilet facilities. County Extension services are provided with individual agent offices, Family and Consumer Science teaching area and extensive display shelving for brochures.