Rating System

LEED BD+C: New Construction

Rating System Version

v2 - LEED 2.0

Inquiry

The Heinz History Center Smithsonian Wing will provide no new parking capacity by providing zero parking spaces. The existing center previously provided 9 parking spaces, all of which have been eliminated. The History Center is located in a dense urban area and no parking is required per the city of Pittsburgh zoning requirements. A net parking reduction strategy for this project was implemented as follows. The Smithsonian Wing addition accounts for 5 new building occupants, by LEED fte calculations this would require .15 or 1 carpool parking space. Together with the 9 existing spaces that were eliminated, a net total of 10 potential spaces have been eliminated. This net reduction will have a direct effect on the reduction of automotive pollution and land development impacts. Convenient parking is available directly across the street in a private lot not affiliated with the Heinz History Center, which provides parking leases and daily rates. Every effort was made to reduce single occupancy vehicle use. To help facilitate employees locate coworkers interested in carpooling, a program has been established and is being managed by the Director of Human Resources. Although zoning does not require parking or a drop off area, a clearly marked drop off/ pick up area is provided to facilitate ride sharing for carpooling employees and visitors to the center. The net reduction strategy is similar to that of the PNC Firstside Center that was awarded this credit. Please confirm a credit equivalency is warranted for SS credit 4.4, by providing no new parking, eliminating all existing parking, developing a carpool program and providing a drop off area.