PHOENIX—Alliance's 264-unit Scottsdale-area development, Broadstone Lincoln, located at 7100 E. Lincoln Dr., was recently awarded LEED-H Platinum Certification. This marks Alliance's second development nationwide to achieve this level of certification. And this certification could mark a new standard for a demographic of renters nationwide.
Ian Swiergol, Alliance's managing director of development for the Southwest region tells GlobeSt.com, “It's very uncommon to have achieved this level of certification. We found consultants who know what they're doing—we were fortunate to have a great team.”
To support certification, Broadstone Lincoln implemented a range of innovative measures for energy efficiency, water conservation and sustainable operations. Improvements include: an energy-efficient building envelope; recycled building materials; high-efficiency mechanical systems; water-saving fixtures and irrigation systems; environmentally-conscious landscaping, high-efficiency low-E windows and EnergyStar appliances. In addition, the project team used sustainable finishing materials with exhaust fans and drains/pipes for moisture-control durability, and created a reduced-heat island effect with reflective roofing materials, paver ground covering and landscaping that minimizes heat absorption. To improve indoor air quality, there are no unvented combustion appliances onsite, carbon monoxide monitors have been installed on each floor and all residences feature enhanced exhausts in bathrooms. HERS rater testing was also completed in each apartment to inspect air tightness within the home and its mechanical ducts.
In addition to the building improvements made to achieve certification, the project's prime location near public transportation and outstanding community resources within a half-mile walking distance support its sustainable living mindset. The property management team upholds the community's commitment to green by following Alliance's Focus Green program, and implementing through sustainable purchasing policies, integrated IAQ management plans and green cleaning practices.
“In the end,” says Swiergol, “it all comes down to economics. What is the renter willing to pay for? So far we haven't seen the renter pay for the LEED certification. We know we may not get an immediate return. But over time there will become a new standard with our demographic of renters. For Broadstone, our average renter's age is in the low 40s and makes in excess of $140 thousand—much higher than average. They have more discerning tastes and they are renters by choice—they have come to expect the conveniences associated with this type of living. And they have come to expect quality of execution.”
Swiergol says the LEED certification is another level of oversight designed for a sustainable future—one that renters will eventually come to demand.
“One example is the air conditioning model,” says Swiergol. “It's very hot here in the desert. Our building is designed to let less heat in, less cold air out. And the air conditioning units themselves are more efficient, saving energy and money.
“For us it really was a black and white decision. We raised the bar with the finishes and amenities, so we decided to raise the bar through the certification process and build a sustainable product.”
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