Urban Edge is a recognized leader in greening affordable housing. Through our experience with many green rehabilitations and new construction projects, we have developed a set of green development standards that we incorporate into all of our real estate projects. These standards help us create high-quality living environments, promote healthy lifestyles, and reduce our impact on environmental resources.
Urban Design Standards:
Preserve and create affordable housing options easily accessible to a range of transportation options
Contribute to a pedestrian-oriented streetscape that is active and feels safe and comfortable
Increase resident ownership of space, for example by maximizing active doorways on street level
Real Estate Development Standards:
Pursue third party green certification, such as LEED, for every new construction project; follow Green Communities Criteria for every rehab project
Meet energy efficiency standard of 5-8 BTU’s per sf per heating degree day (depending on age of building)
Install thermostats with maximum upper limits and no setback
Provide a high quality indoor environment by installing direct exhausts in kitchen and bathrooms; using solid surface flooring instead of carpet; and using only no-VOC paints, sealants, and solvents.
Install low-flow water fixtures and ensure that water use is under 20,000 gallons per bedroom per year
Reduce construction waste with a goal of recycling 75% of waste
Environmental Stewardship Standards:
Use only green cleaning products certified by state standards for environmentally preferable products
Adhere to Urban Edge’s green operation & maintenance plan
Use integrated pest management strategies to reduce use of chemicals
Provide recycling opportunities in every building
Hang posters describing energy and water conservation strategies in visible locations throughout the building
Use WegoWise to track energy and water usage
Landscape using only native, drought-resistant plants