We are working on an urban school renovation (SSc2=yes), and I am wondering if having the playgrounds and other outdoor areas behind fences affects this credit at all - are they still "pedestrian oriented" if typical pedestrians/passers-by cannot access them?
We appear able to obtain the credit 2 ways:
If I add up every scrap of non-paved area on site, we make it, but this includes counting things like in-ground tree planters completely surrounded by playground, which seems dicey.
If I count all of our playgrounds and outdoor classroom/lunch area, we also achieve the credit under the "Pedestrian Oriented Hardscape" provision, but I'm not sure these qualify, as they certainly aren't public areas like the plaza given in the example, or an open, generally accessible playing field.
Maybe I'm overthinking it, but any thoughts on which calculations would be more reasonable to submit?
Thanks,
Devon Bertram
Sustainability ManagerYR&G
214 thumbs up
November 21, 2011 - 1:20 am
Daniel,
I think you may be able to go with your second scenario as long as the playgrounds and outdoor classroom / lunch areas are open and accessible to all occupants at the school. Is this the case?
Daniel McDonald
InternIKG Architects
23 thumbs up
November 21, 2011 - 9:26 am
Yes, if I'm understanding you correctly. The outdoor classroom and the playground are designated for use by all students, as opposed to upper grades using one area, and lower grades using a separate area.
I also discovered that while the schoolyard is fenced in, the gates will not be locked - the playground is meant to be generally accessible to the neighborhood.
Thanks!
Devon Bertram
Sustainability ManagerYR&G
214 thumbs up
November 21, 2011 - 4:15 pm
Yes, from my understanding of the credit, it sounds like these would be able to count towards the calcs because they are open to everyone on the project. Good luck!