Development Density

Channel development to urban areas with existing infrastructure, protect greenfields and preserve habitat and natural resources.
Rating Systems and Code Applicable Products/Systems
LEED NC LEED S LEED CS LEED H LEED R LEED ND CHPS CALGreen
SSc2
5 Pts.		 SSc2
4 Pts.		 SSc2
5 Pts.		 SSc2
1 Pt.		 SSc2
5 Pts.		 SLLp1

SLLc1
1-10 Pts.		 SS1.2
1 Pt.		 A4.103
A5.103
Supportive of strategy goals.
  • Integrate with natural contours of the site
  • Maximize usability of the site
  • Efficient structural and fire separation walls (CMU)

While the focus for development density is maximizing urban sites, certain product systems inherently provide value in support of this goal by their performance properties or flexibility in design and construction, especially for infill sites.

Concrete masonry walls inherently provide fire and separation walls. In our region, walls are typically solid-grouted; therefore, a common 8-inch thick cmu wall meets a 4-hour resistance rating by just being what it already is!

Concrete masonry, permeable interlocking concrete pavements (PICP), Proto II™, and segmental retaining walls enable extremely flexible designs that maximize the usability of challenging lots, minimize site disruption, and integrate with the natural contours of the site. These units are relatively small and modular, and require little dedicated space for their staging or construction. Typical availability allows for efficient adaptation to site requirements without time-consuming special fabrications.

PICP combine parking and pathway elements with stormwater management; see next article

Green Credits & Strategies - Development Density