City of Nanaimo Implements Green Building Policy

The City of Nanaimo's Green Building Policy requires all new public buildings over 500 square metres to meet the LEED Silver standard. This is part and parcel of the City's commitment to develop climate change and energy plans under the aegis of the Partners for Climate Change Program. 

The first City building to meet this standard is the Oliver Road Community Centre. Consistent with the objectives of the regional and City climate change adaptation plans, this project will provide improved energy performance systems, water conservation features, and alternatives to automobile transportation such as proximity to transit and indoor bike racks.

“Because the Oliver Road Community Centre is the first City project to follow the LEED approach, it has been a learning experience, with the lessons learned being transferable to other communities that are considering LEED policies”, notes Rob Lawrance, Environmental Planner with the City.

“Having an integrated design and construction team proved invaluable”, adds Maurice Mauch, who is responsible for overseeing building construction.”This approach enabled timely and effective resolution of unforeseen challenges. The team came up with a number of innovative solutions on site, which would not have happened with a traditional approach to project implementation.”

A noteworthy aspect of site development is the way trees have been retained and rainwater capture features are being incorporated.

The Oliver Road Community Centre is one of three City of Nanaimo projects that will be featured as part of Showcasing Green Infrastructure Innovation on Vancouver Island: The 2007 Series. On September 14, the City of Nanaimo and the Regional District of Nanaimo will be co-hosting the first of three events that comprise  the series. For the complete story on the Nanaimo program, please click here.

Posted August 2007