Skanska USA’s commercial development business unit broke ground in June on its 10th and G development project at 733 10th Street in Washington, D.C. The company acquired the building’s development rights last fall and is self-financing 100% of the development costs.

The 10th and G project, located five blocks from the White House, will consist of eight stories of office space, 165,000 rentable square feet, ground-level retail space, and worship space for First Congregational United Church of Christ.

The building was previously being developed by PN Hoffman. The project is the first development project in the U.S. for Skanska USA Commercial Development, which launched in late 2008. The company’s development unit will focus on Class A sustainable office projects that will reach a minimum of LEED Gold certification.

The 10th and G project is targeting LEED Gold standards. The building will include a green roof; energy-efficient floor-to-ceiling windows; green housekeeping; and improved indoor air quality. Skanska estimates the building will save an estimated 11% in annual energy costs.

Skanska USA also will serve as construction manager.  The project’s architects include Cunningham & Quill Architects and Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects.

Construction is expected to complete during the latter half of 2011.