More local governments are requiring building owners to mitigate the impact of stormwater runoff.
Solutions including rain gardens, green roofs, cisterns, and rainwater recycling add cost to projects, but they also yield value to properties, according to a new report by the Urban Land Institute. Elements that captured stormwater enhanced the user experience, improved place-making opportunity, and improved development yield of land.
A 200-unit apartment complex in Boston, for example, garnered an additional $300 to $500 per month in rent for units that overlooked a green roof. The green roof cost $113,000 to build, and the extra rent nets $120,000 per year, according to the ULI report.
Green infrastructure including bioswales, is more cost-effective than graywater infrastructure where sewage mains and tunnels collect and treat stormwater and sewage before discharging, studies show.
Related Stories
Energy | Jul 25, 2016
Michigan law provides local governments with flexible energy conservation financing
Allows cities to fund projects without adding debt.
Contractors | Jul 15, 2016
Trade unions, contractors call for maximum penalty in construction worker death case
‘Sick and tired’ of lawbreaking contractors defining public perception.
Multifamily Housing | Jul 14, 2016
Portland, Ore., City Council approves construction excise tax for affordable housing
Expected to raise $8 million annually on commercial and residential projects.
Drones | Jul 13, 2016
FAA issues final rule on commercial use of drones
The rule covers commercial uses for drones that weigh less than 55 pounds, and it takes effect Aug. 29.
Codes and Standards | Jul 12, 2016
OSHA raises maximum civil penalties by 78%
Applies to infractions that occurred after Nov. 2, 2015.
School Construction | Jul 11, 2016
Fight over school funding in Arizona headed to court
Legislature accused of ignoring 1994 ruling ordering state to pick up some of the costs.
Green Specifications | Jul 8, 2016
World Green Building Council sets goal of 100% net-zero buildings by 2050
All new buildings and major renovations to be net-zero by 2030.
Market Data | Jul 7, 2016
Airbnb alleged to worsen housing crunch in New York City
Allegedly removing thousands of housing units from market, driving up rents.
Urban Planning | Jul 7, 2016
Y Combinator project would build new city using new technology, urban policies
Zoning, property rights, building codes all could be re-imagined.
Green | Jul 6, 2016
U.S. healthcare system’s GHG emissions rise 30% in past decade
If U.S. healthcare were a country, it would rank 13th in GHG emissions.