City of Pitt Meadows: South Bonson Community Centre (LEED Gold)
Type of initiative
FCM Green Municipal Fund - Capital Project
Sector
Energy
Project value$5,069,141
Project Type
Capital Project
Sub Sector
Building – New – Energy efficiency
Grant amount$302,357
Program type
GMF
Municipality
City of Pitt Meadows, BC
Loan amount$3,023,568
Status
Fully Disbursed
Population
19,146
Project timeline
2010 - 2011
Project number
10297
Description
The LEED Gold South Bonson Community Centre (SBCC), nestled in the heart of the South Bonson Waterfront Village, on the northern shores of the Fraser River, will be the first LEED-certified municipal building for the City of Pitt Meadows, B.C., and will feature a 55.8% reduction in energy consumption over the Model National Energy Code for Buildings standard. Its construction will help further revitalize the downtown core and set an important new environmental design standard for capital projects, given its close alignment with the visions and goals of the city’s Official Community Plan and Corporate and Community Sustainability Plan. Located within a former industrial brownfield that has recently been transformed into a highly desirable mixed-use neighbourhood, the SBCC offers site accessibility and proximity to public transit, green spaces, a riverfront walkway, and a trails network; it also continues the integration of SmartGrowth principles in its immediate area. LEED certification will be attained through efficient use of energy, water, and materials; promotion of indoor air quality; stormwater management; prevention of light pollution; and facilitation of alternative transportation. The South Bonson Waterfront Village is to be pedestrian-oriented, anchored by the SBCC and a central plaza, and is designed to attract small businesses offering services in a traditional, small town 'main street' manner. The building will be fully accessible, and its adaptable spaces will permit a variety of uses, ensuring inclusivity for users of all ages and abilities. The goal is to increase opportunities for a healthy, active and engaged citizenry; establish partnerships with the Katzie First Nation; integrate local heritage and First Nations culture in building design; and contribute to the vibrancy and safety of the Waterfront Village neighbourhood. The public engagement and consultation with the Katzie First Nation, with community groups and organizations, and with the general public that preceded building design are models that could be adopted by other municipalities for their own capital construction projects — particularly community centres. The building itself will incorporate educational signage and interactive displays of the various energy savings components to enhance public awareness of energy issues.
(Project description from original funding application)
Project results
- 7 tonnes of GHG emissions avoided
- 652 GJ of energy savings per year
Environmental outcomes
- Reduced energy use
- Renewable energy generation
- Reduced or avoided GHG emissions
- Reduced water consumption
- Improved stormwater management
- Promotion of eco-friendly transportation
- Urban sprawl management
- Use of sustainable practices
- Minimal environmental impact
- Reduced light pollution
Social outcomes
- Increased opportunities for physical activity
- Increased opportunities for recreational activities
- Greater civic pride and ownership
- Increased opportunities for community engagement
- Increased social inclusion
- Improved public education or awareness
- Heritage conservation
- Improved public space
- Community revitalization
- Development of local programs
Economic outcomes
- Innovative financing
- Increased tourism
- Local business development or local economy stimulus
- Use of feasibility tools
Lessons learned
- Stakeholder and community engagement
- Communication & coordination
- Resources
- External factors
Applicant
City of Pitt Meadows, BC