Blakely Hall First to Receive U.S. Green Globes™ Rating

Other green features include an innovative storm water management system, which is part of a larger plan created by Port Blakely Communities to control surface flow in the 2,200-acre Issaquah Highlands Community. With the local population expected to grow substantially, the plan incorporates a comprehensive system of retention ponds, filtration devices and water control monitors to ensure that ground water is continually replenished, and that there’s no net increase in water flows to streams.

To achieve certification, the design team used the Green Globes tool to assess and rate the building. The rating was then verified by a third-party building science expert, who reviewed the construction documents and conducted an on-site evaluation.

“The Green Globes system offers a number of advantages that make it perfect for smaller structures such as Blakely Hall,” said Ward Hubbell, executive director of the GBI. “It’s Web-based, easy to use and affordable. It also facilitates the process of integrated design, providing a platform for communication among members of the project team.”

The two-story, 7,000 square foot community center houses the Issaquah Highlands Council and hosts a variety of meetings and events for the local community. It is comprised of offices, a large central space, flexible meeting rooms, community Internet computer stations, and a demonstration kitchen and dining room. Construction was completed in March 2005.