Described as a "thin grain roof," it is especially designed for buildings no higher than three stories with a minimum roof space of 10,000 sf. The rooftop vegetation will also keep 300,000 gallons of rainwater from running into the city's sewer system. The ground-cover plants rely solely on natural rainfall and will flower at different times producing a variety of color.

Rising utility costs and concern for a healthy environment prompted PHA to make the commitment to go green, says Greene. Other green building initiatives at the project include Energy Star appliances and fixtures, recycled or "green label" carpeting and environmentally friendly paints, primers and caulking.

Ted Dillon, a home energy analyst for the Energy Coordinating Agency, estimates the combined efforts will reduce emissions by between 13% and 14%. PHA expects to receive LEED certification for the building, and Greene says the environmentally friendly features also helped speed PHA's application for a building permit and obtain financing for the project.

The construction cost is $23.4 million. The three-story Nellie Reynolds Gardens facility encompasses 85,000 sf and includes a 12,000-sf Living Independently for Elders center that will provide health care services administered by the state.