The intent of this credit is to reduce heat islands to minimize impact on teh microclimate and human and wildlife habitat. In order to meet this credit, we propose to supplement the use of high-albedo materials and shading (in 5 years) with a substantial reduction of asphalt surfacing. This will require us to obtain a special varience from the local planning and zoning board to allow substantially less parking than is minimally required. To acquire this varience, we will need to demonstrate to the local planning and zoning board that this facility can operate suffieciently with substantially less parking(31% reduction) than what what is minimally required by code through a detailed "Facility Occupancy Projection". Our formulas are as follows: Total asphalt surfacing required to meet minimum P & Z parking regulations + total concrete (high albedo) surface = Total non-roof impervious area Total non-roof impervious area X 30%
Reducing the size of the parking lot (31% less than required by the zoning code requirements) is commendable, but does not warrant the award of this credit. The purpose of this credit is to reduce the heat island effect caused by impervious surfaces that MUST be installed on the site, through the use of high-albedo or pervious paving materials and shading devices such as trees or covered parking. Un-built areas can not therefore be accounted for under this credit, and as such, the proposed formula can not be used. The strategy of reducing parking lot size is rewarded by other credits; it contributes towards achievement of SSc4.4 (Alternative Transportation - Parking Capacity) and SSc5 (Reduced Site Disturbance). If SSc4.4 is being pursued, the team may qualify for an innovation credit by demonstrating exemplary performance in the parking reduction, AND meeting the basic requirement for carpool spaces. Also consider SSc6, Stormwater Management. Applicable internationally.