Central Alabama Branch
Leed Projects
City of Progress' Turtleback Subdivision
Showcase for Sustainable Residences
Birmingham, Ala. -- The 'City of Progress', Enterprise has the honor of leading Alabama in the first LEED certified homes all located in the new Turtleback Subdivision off Salem road. Two completed LEED homes are open for viewing this weekend plus two special ICF (Insulated Concrete Form) LEED home exteriors may be viewed during the Parade of Homes.
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is a national standard set by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) which requires a third party inspector to certify that the residence meets strict energy and water efficiency and provides cleaner, healthier air, among other healthy living issues. As a result, LEED homes save the owner every month on their energy and water bill.
"It is time to get rid of the myths surrounding 'green' construction. These are affordable, comfortable, luxury homes that are friendlier to our environment and create significant savings on energy and water costs every month," remarked Robin White, President, USGBC Alabama Chapter.
There is a federal tax credit of up to $1,500 for homeowners on the purchase of energy efficient homes. In addition, the Turtleback homes qualify for special Energy Efficient Mortgages (EEM) while costing little to no difference on the bottom line mortgage. Also, there is a federal tax incentive of up to $2,000 per home for builders, which requires energy simulation and Home Energy Rating System (HERS) documentation.
Del Lee, co-developer of Turtleback, has a background building on the harsh Florida coast. When Bo Lee presented him with the opportunity to develop the Turtleback subdivision in his hometown of Enterprise, he investigated the latest design and construction approaches for durability. "All roads led to the LEED design for more durable homes. It makes good sense to develop with durability in mind and the LEED system requires that higher level of durability," said Del Lee, President, Landmark Corporation, Inc.
On average, the net costs of owning a green home is comparable to that of owning a conventional home - and sometimes is even less. Green homes save money byusing an average of 40% less energy and 50% less water.
Bo Lee, co-developer of the innovative project, explains, "LEED is good for ourcommunity because through more efficient water and power use, there is lessstrain on our infrastructure of Enterprise."
Robb Dryden, President, Dryden Contracting, builder of the Turtleback LEED residences and owner of 109 White Wing Way in Turtleback said "I was happily surprised to discover we could get LEED designation on my home. The developer, Del Lee, encouraged me saying, 'Let's look at doing this as LEED,' and I found the process extremely flexible and we achieved LEED. Now, I have already contracted to start another LEED home in a different subdivision of Enterprise."
White noted, "These Turtleback homes are great examples of getting construction done right. This LEED standard supports the local economy by encouraging local materials be used and puts less strain on the local municipality for services. It is a win/win/win for residents, for municipalities, and for our environment. I invite developers, contractors, and homeowners across Alabama to look to the Turtleback subdivision in Enterprise as a great example for all residential construction across our state."
The U.S. Green Building Council Alabama Chapter was formed to advance and promote sustainable and environmentally responsible planning, design, construction and operation of the state’s buildings, landscapes, cities and communities. For more information, visitwww.usgbcofal.org.
