We were on the cusp of Gold level until our review came back with several points deducted from our energy model. Our Green Rater suggested that we look into the Pilot Credit program and felt confident that we may qualify for several additional points. Within the Pilot Credit Library, we found that several aspects of our project had naturally conformed to the LEED mission of sustainability, accessibility and energy conservation. In particular, that our project is located in an existing densely populated neighborhood of an older Mid-West industrial city qualified us to receive one (1) point for PC 29. There exists many community resources within walking distance of the building and the original fabric of the neighborhood still supports much commercial activity that provides jobs for local residents. Much of the original housing stock still remains intact; while any new development is designed as infill housing to preserve the original scale and character of the neighborhood. Much of the original commercial sector is still intact, with corner stores and blocks that provide a critical mass of commercial offerings. Though the original commercial uses may no longer exist (ex: shoe repair shop), the present commercial offerings reflect current consumer demand.

I find this point very useful in the redevelopment of existing buildings in older inner-city neighborhoods and even densely developed smaller towns. The idea is to promote sustainability through energy conservation by reinforcing a walkable community that provides job opportunities for the people who also live in the same community.