The Depot marks the 9th LEED-certified structure on campus, joining two other buildings and six houses in Loy Center.
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The Depot building at the Station at Mill Point provides upperclassmen living in the residential townhouse complex on South Williamson Avenue with a fitness center, meeting rooms and social space in addition to serving as the community office for Residence Life staff.
Now, the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Silver-certified Depot also serves as an educational model. The 5,091-square-foot structure promotes efficient and responsible resource use with a high quality of life.
Developed by the U.S. Green Building Council, LEED certification is an internationally recognized standard for sustainable design and construction. Buildings receive the distinction based on criteria for sustainable site consideration, water efficiency, energy efficiency, materials use and disposal, indoor environmental quality and innovation.
Site: Located within walking distance of campus and Town of Elon amenities, a BioBus stop, and easily accessible bike racks, the site is conducive to getting around without relying on a personal vehicle. For those with cars, low-emitting vehicle (LEV) parking spaces are available to residents with energy efficient vehicles (this includes more than hybrids!).
Further contributing to improved environmental quality, substantial storm water management controls ensure rain that leaves the site is of a smaller volume and higher quality.
Water Efficiency: Low-flow faucets and dual flush toilets contribute to a 30 percent reduction in potable water use inside, while drip irrigation and an efficient sprinkler system help conserve water outside.
Energy Efficiency: Insulation, efficient lighting, high performance windows and energy recovery ventilators are some of the features that help the building consume 27 percent less energy than buildings that meet the standard energy code.
Materials: About 22 percent of building materials are regional and 11 percent of materials contain recycled content. The majority of construction waste, 85 percent, was diverted from the landfill. In an effort to continue diverting waste from landfills, recycling receptacles are provided.
Indoor Environmental Quality: To maximize indoor air quality, dust minimization precautions were taken during construction and low VOC (volatile organic compounds) products were used throughout the building. Natural light, adjustable light levels and adjustable thermostats also contribute to the indoor comfort of occupants.
Innovation: The project was given special recognition for its high percentage of vegetated outdoor space (40 percent), a comprehensive approach to storm water management, the purchase of Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) equal to 70 percent of the electric use for two years, a green cleaning program and educational program including a Sustainable Living Guide specifically for Station at Mill Point residents.
For more information on Elon’s sustainable construction practices, review the Green Building Policy or visit the Office of Sustainability website.