We just had a planning call for the tour, and I’m more convinced than before that: a) we picked a great location for this year’s Winter Summit and b) you won’t want to miss this tour!
Alabama’s Gulf State Park got a big infusion of funds from the BP Oil Spill (that’s an interesting story in itself), and now has some amazing new facilities. Alex Wilson was involved in one of the early charrettes; the master plan was done by Sasaki; Lake|Flato designed the new lodge where we’ll be staying—it's pursing LEED Gold, SITES Platinum, and Fortified certifications. Tenna Florian from L|F led the design and will help lead the tour, along with Corey Squire.
There is also an interpretive center by Architecture Works that’s pursuing Living Building certification, and a learning center adjacent to a town high school. The sustainability consultant on the interpretive center, Rebecca Bryant, will also be with us. These facilities are pretty spread out, so we’ll be cycling between them, with interpretive stops along the way on the bike paths.
If you’re already signed up for the Winter Summit, make sure to arrange your travel so you can be at the Park by 1pm for the tour. And if you’re not signed up yet (and you qualify as a current SD Leader), don’t miss you chance! Contact Jerelyn@BuildingGreen.com if you need details.
