Picture courtesy of Rushing Co
Picture courtesy of Rushing Co
The streetcars that will run on the First Hill Line will be maintained in a facility that was just awarded a LEED Gold Certificate for its many sustainable features. Some of the most notable elements are:
- a green roof with a 7kW solar panel array
- a bio-retention area and pervious concrete pavers to maximize stormwater collection and infiltration
- abundant daylighting with operable windows and skylights to provide natural ventilation and cooling
- high efficiency LED and fluorescent lighting with smart controls
- radiant in-floor heating which utilizes a high efficiency hydronic heating boiler
Other energy systems for the facility include a heat recovery ventilator, a variable refrigerant flow system and heat reclaim from the electrical room.
These characteristics are all the more impressive when considering that the nature of the facility and its construction. More than 17% of the materials used in the construction (by cost) were recycled and more than 10% were sourced locally (within 500 miles). The lumber used was certified by the Forest Stewardship Council to ensure responsible forest management and while other materials and finishes were low VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) certified.
In addition the facility will foster ongoing energy savings by maintenance staff. It includes an electric car charging station, bicycle storage and (energy efficient) showers.
This Gold LEEDS Certificate demonstrates the viability of adopting sustainable design for all types of buildings – and the commitment to innovation in the design and maintenance of Seattle’s Streetcar system.
