It was stated in Credit Interpretation Ruling SSc51-120402 that "installing playing fields can count toward achievement of SS 5.2 for open space". Our project is a 5-storey Physical Education building with a 2 level parking structure that serves our building and the other buildings in the campus. The entire (100%) parking spaces are covered and the 2nd level roof is actually an open athletic field, where the baseball field and the soccer field is covered with artificial turf while the 1st level parking is half underground. The Athletic Field has area larger than our building footprint and since this project is a university campus (that is, no local zoning requirements), and the requirement of SSc5.2 is to designate an open space area adjacent to the building footprint (or development footprint under LEED 2.1), do we get a point for SSc5.2 - Development footprint? And then since we are using artificial turf in our landscape, do we qualify for points in water efficient landscaping? We also think that we may qualify for an innovation point for heat island credit exceedance since 100% of our parking space is covered or underground.
Your credit interpretation submission includes three separate inquiries, each having to do with different credits. Only one inquiry topic is allowed per CIR. This ruling will answer the inquiry related to SS Credit 5.2. The intent of this credit is to encourage projects to protect, restore, or maintain open space. Artificial turf on top of a parking structure is not considered open space for purposes of this credit. Although the ruling for a SS 5.1 credit inquiry dated 11/14/02 suggested that playing fields can count toward achievement of SS credit 5.2 open space, the Technical Advisory Group does not consider artificial turf to qualify for this interpretation. The fact that the playing fields are part of a parking structure and elevated above grade is also problematic for puposes of this credit.