In the Required Documentation section of the Reference Guide, it states that a project must provide a "description of the previous development on the site." How does USGBC define the "site" in this context?
Is the "site" limited to the project site or does it include all of the surrounding development within a 1/4 mile radius of the project site?
The definition of "previously developed site," states, "a site, that prior to the project, consisted of at least 75% previously developed land."
My interpretation of this credit is that "site" is limited to the project site. As a result, if a project site has not been previously developed, then it cannot qualify for any points for the Surrounding Density portion of this credit.
Do others agree? Please confirm.
Thanks!
Dana
Kimberly Schlaepfer
Sustainability Coordinator LEED AP O+M, BD+C75 thumbs up
February 8, 2016 - 6:53 pm
Hi Dana,
Previously developed sites do not have an effect on this credit. Yes, the reference guide notes that a description of the site must be provided, but having documented this credit for LEED projects, there is nothing within the form or documentation requirements on LEED Online that make you provide this narrative, so I am not sure what the reference guide is referring to here. Your project should be able to earn any points for density or diverse uses, even if it is a non-previously developed site, as long as it meets the required thresholds.
Hope that helps!