May 4, 2012
The Spring Green Building Tours are an opportunity visit a varied collection of buildings to learn about energy efficient and sustainable building methods directly from building professionals such as the architect, engineer, developer or owner. You’ll experience firsthand the inner workings and design details, as well the challenges and accomplishments that were faced by the professionals involved with these commercial and residential buildings. This year’s tour will feature: Urban Farms, “Recycled” Brownstones, Solar PV, Deep Energy Retrofits, Green Roofs, Bio-walls, and more!
Date: Saturday, May 19th 2012
Time: Between 10AM and 1PM
Cost: $10 before May 14th; $15 after May 14th
Choose from 3 exciting tours!
1. South Bronx walking tour
See examples of cutting edge sustainable design in two new construction affordable housing developments. The newly completed
Via Verde and soon to be complete
Forest House push the envelope for affordable housing in the city. You will see green roofs, rooftop greenhouses, cogeneration systems, grey water harvesting, and much more. For more details and to register, see
here.
2. Lower Manhattan bike tour
This tour will provide an example of a deep energy retrofit at
179 Henry Street. In 2010, the building converted its old steam heating system to a high efficient hot water system. Along with lighting and water conservation measures, the building reduced its energy consumption by 44% in the first year. The building took advantage of a number of state and federal finance programs to achieve the retrofit at virtually no cost to the owners. The next stop will showcase
148 Lafayette St. a LEED Gold office space with unique day lighting, efficient HVAC with occupancy sensors, and a biowall designed to resemble Central Park. For more details and to register, see
here.
3. Brooklyn bike tour
Take a ride through Carroll Gardens and Red Hook as we visit
Added Value Farm. The 2+ acre community farm creates opportunities for the youth of South Brooklyn to expand their knowledge base, develop new skills and positively engage with their community through the operation of a socially responsible urban farming enterprise. It also grows nearly 7 tons of produce annually! Next we will bike over to the
Eco-Brooklyn showhouse where we will see a rehabbed brownstone built primarily out of salvaged materials – utilizing clay walls, daylighting, radiant floors, grey water systems, and a natural pool! For more details and to register, see
here.
Space is limited, sign up today!
