Our Building
With LEED as our guiding compass, we created our plan and starting identified goals for the Cycles Unlimited “green” building.
Read more about our vision and project in this 7 Part Presentation Of The Leed Environmental Design For Cycles Unlimited.
By Jonothan Woody
Key Elements:
• Exterior lighting will be kept at a strict minimum to reduce sky-glow, increase visibility, and reduce the impact on nocturnal environments, such as the migration patterns of birds. The exterior lamps are solar powered to reduce electrical usage.
• Erosion and sediment control is a prerequisite for this type of building. Measures must be taken to ensure erosion and airborne particles are avoided at all times, including construction. This is accomplished through the use of earth dikes and sediment traps.
• At least half of the site area will be developed with native vegetation. Native vegetation will survive in the local climate without the need for excessive water and fertilization and will provide habitat while promoting biodiversity.
• Through the use of a special pervious surface in the parking area, the natural storm water flows are retained. In addition, the storm water runoff from the building is collected in a reservoir for later use such as landscape irrigation and toilet flushing, which greatly reduces the usage of other water sources.
• The promotion of alternative transportation is an important role for this structure. Measures must be taken to reduce the amount of pollution and land development impacts through the use of automobiles. Close access to public transportation depots, bicycle storage and changing rooms for employees will be implemented. In addition, minimal overall parking spaces and preferred parking for fuel-efficient vehicles will be introduced.
