What was so great about 1997?

Austin's Green Builder program heavy-handedly influenced the way we build apartments in Austin. And thank God for it.

In '97 the program guidelines went into effect, with a few key building codes that help keep energy bills much lower than older units built without the regulations. Sure, the materials restrictions keep all the new stuff looking pretty homogenous, but look what all we picked up:

• Two ceiling fans per unit
• 12.0 SEER high-efficiency air conditioners
• Gas combination space/water heating systems
• Interiors painted with healthier paints
• Insulation and sheathing made of materials that don't harm the ozone layer
• Concrete with 15% flyash content (a by-product of coal-burning power plants)
• Siding made from recycled materials and cement (Hardiplank)
• Landscape irrigation will not require use of city water/sewer
• Excess construction materials donated to Habitat for Humanity
• Concrete paving (instead of asphalt) on parking lots and sidewalks to keep the outdoor areas cooler

All this adds up to a reduced fixed monthly cost for the tenant because of much lower energy bills. So next time you think you're saving $50/month for going with the '80s built property, think again.

Looking for a new place? Let me help. BradleyPounds@aol.com.