Previous rating systems required preferred spaces to be located closest to the primary entrance exclusive of ADA and though the two examples in the reference manual depict that kind of scenario there does not appear to be any location requirement expressed in the narrative for "green vehicle" or "EV" spaces. The only requirements seem to be that you distribute them between long and short term parking and that they not be shared. Is this correct? Can these spaces be located wherever you want?
Also what about the "exclusive of ADA" part? Can you put green vehicle or EV spaces in ADA parking? It seems that LEED wants these spaces to be exclusive or low emitting or electric vehicles which would suggest no. But what if the ADA person has a green vehicle or wants to charge their electric vehicle? We don't have long term and short term parking but does proportional distribution actually include ADA?
Emily Purcell
Sustainable Design LeadCannonDesign
LEEDuser Expert
370 thumbs up
March 8, 2018 - 4:29 pm
Hi Michelle,
Take a look at the LT category introduction section of the reference guide - there's a definition of preferred parking that applies to both credits. It is still required to locate those green vehicle spaces in the location closest to the main entrance. No requirement for EVSE location, though.
"Exclusive of ADA" I think would be more about not restricting use of ADA spaces in any way so they're always available for people who need them (or because it might not be code-compliant to restrict them further? I'm not sure on that one) than about the LEED credit intent. I think ensuring that EVSE is in an accessible location relatively close to the entrance so it's an option for folks with disabilities is absolutely a good practice, but for documenting the credit it's probably best to just keep those spaces separate from your ADA required spaces.
Michelle Rosenberger
PartnerArchEcology
522 thumbs up
March 8, 2018 - 4:36 pm
Hi Emily,
Thanks.