To celebrate Energy Efficiency Day, Virginia Energy Efficiency Council (VAEEC) is conducting site visits with legislators in their districts to demonstrate what energy efficiency looks like and educate about all of its many benefits. Viridiant helped organize and lead this morning’s tour with Newport News Delegate David Yancey (R-94).
Del. Yancey joined representatives from VAEEC, Viridiant, Newport News Redevelopment & Housing Authority (NNRHA), and Excel Property Management for coffee and a tour of 801 Main Senior Apartments, an EarthCraft Multifamily (ECMF) Platinum certified project.
801 Main Senior Apartments is a new construction affordable housing development that achieved ECMF Platinum certification in 2017. The community, located conveniently in the heart of Newport News, is designed for seniors. Various energy-efficient systems were utilized to increase building efficiency and lower energy costs for all 44 one and two bedrooms apartments. The development also features 100% Universal Design units. Additional amenities include a laundry room, computer center, and garden plots. The project team consisted of Landbridge Development, Martin Riley Associates, Agile Construction Company, and Excel Property Management. Their work demonstrates attention to our environment as well as the residents’ health, comfort, and financial stability.
This project was possible with funding from Virginia Housing Development Authority’s Low Income Housing Tax Credit Program. NNRHA was also a critical partner that provided $350,000 through the HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) as well as eleven Project Based Vouchers (PBV). To learn more about this project check out our full case study.
Later today VAEEC and Project: HOMES will lead another legislator site visit in Goochland, Virginia. Stay tuned for more details. Today’s outreach is a collaborative effort to share the positive impacts of energy efficiency and green building programs with Virginia legislators. Partners, policy, and funding mechanisms that encourage energy efficiency have a positive impact on more than the environment, they support affordable housing and job creation in the Commonwealth.