Portland Affordable Housing Development Achieves LEED Platinum

PORTLAND, Maine — Pearl Place II, a 55,978-square-foot, 54-unit apartment complex in Portland achieved LEED Platinum certification. Energy models estimate that the housing complex is 25 percent more efficient than standard buildings with similar characteristics.

It is the second phase of an affordable housing development in the city’s Bayside neighborhood. Construction on the project was completed in January 2013.

Avesta Housing, a nonprofit organization that provides affordable housing opportunities for local residents, owns the complex. New York-headquartered Thornton Tomasetti was the sustainability consultant on the project. Wright-Ryan Construction was the contractor on the project; PDT Architects served as the architect; and Horizon Residential Energy Services provided EnergyStar and Green Rater Services. All three firms are locally based.

Several green initiatives were incorporated into the project. Thornton Tomasetti, for instance, used energy modeling to analyze window glazing types, insulation systems, a heat recovery ventilation system and solar hot water systems. Pearl Place II was built using efficient panelized construction techniques that saved time, minimized waste, improved quality, and reduced costs. Energy-efficient lighting fixtures and HVAC systems led to a 21 percent reduction in energy costs as compared with the ASHRAE 90.1-2007 requirements. About 85 percent of construction debris was diverted from landfills and incineration plants because the construction team separated the debris on site and then sent it to local recycling centers.

Pearl Place II’s central location makes it so residents do not require a car. The project is within walking distance to three major grocery stores, the Portland Public Library, post office, other community resources, Deering Oaks, Kennedy and Lincoln parks. Plus, it is within half a mile of 250-plus transit rides per weekday and it has an on-site bicycle storage area to encourage bike use.