Boston has enacted new rules to help buildings withstand climate change.
The Boston Planning & Development Agency approved the new rules recently with the aims of helping to minimize flooding, keep the lights on in more buildings during power outages, and make it easier to upgrade street lights and other public works. Developments of 1.5 million sf or larger will need to assess installing an on-site power plant, and would have to build one if it’s financially feasible.
The largest developments will also have to consolidate all wiring for cable, Internet, and other telecom services into one underground tube to minimize disruption to streets and sidewalks during repairs. Any new development greater than 100,000 sf will have to retain more rainfall than currently required to help prevent runoff during storms from contributing to floods.
Developers of projects greater than 50,000 sf would need to install extra wiring and technology for smart traffic signals and street lights if the projects require new or improved signals or lights. The rules will undergo a two-year testing period.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Nov 28, 2017
Nail-Laminated timber Canadian design and construction guide released
Includes practical strategies and guidance with lessons from real-life projects.
Codes and Standards | Nov 27, 2017
New standard to monitor building sealing performance
Increased understanding of how materials act when stretched and compressed is the goal.
Codes and Standards | Nov 27, 2017
Denver voters approve green roof mandate
Buildings of 25,000 sf or larger required to install vegetative roof or PVs.
Codes and Standards | Nov 21, 2017
USGBC adopts ‘RELi’ resilient building and design standard
The standard prescribes methods for designing more resilient buildings and communities.
Codes and Standards | Nov 21, 2017
Updated material transparency web site and hazardous building materials list unveiled
Improved versions of tools aimed at use of healthier construction supplies.
Codes and Standards | Nov 16, 2017
White roofing isn’t always the best choice
Adverse effects include heat reflection onto nearby walls.
Codes and Standards | Nov 15, 2017
U.S. finalizes tariffs on Canadian softwood lumber
The duties would add 20% or more to cost if trade negotiators can’t find common ground.
Codes and Standards | Nov 15, 2017
NBI stretch code a tool for accelerating efficiency standards
It provides a strategy to leapfrog minimum code requirements.
Codes and Standards | Nov 14, 2017
California bill would require purchase of low-carbon construction products
Contractors would have to source products based on greenhouse gas impact, not price, on state projects.
Codes and Standards | Nov 13, 2017
New AIA contract document for facility support services released
Updated form intended to be used with owner-architect agreements.