The Blacksburg Motor Company restoration project is a gleaming example of how energy efficient and sustainable activities can be incorporated successfully and cost effectively into public and commercial projects. The building will be the first LEED certified Town facility and the first LEED certified building in the community. A geothermal heat pump system, partially supported by a grant through the Appalachian Regional Commission and Tennessee Valley Authority, will serve the building. The project will also demonstrate that historic preservation and green building practices are not incongruent. The work is in accordance with stringent standards for historic renovation fitting the building's listing in the State and National Register of Historic places. This historically sensitive renovation is enabling the Town to generate significant revenue through the sale of historic tax credits to assist in financing the project.

When finished in January, 2009, the former Blacksburg Motor Company building will serve as an extension of the Blacksburg Municipal Complex and will house offices for the Planning and Building Department, Engineering and GIS Department, and allow for much needed meeting space within the Town organization.

The tour will highlight site selection, green building practices, historic renovation and historic tax credits, green construction practices, energy efficiency elements, conversion of the site from a brownfield to a downtown amenity, and the commitment of architect, owner, contractor, and community necessary for a successful green building project.

During this time, the public will also have the opportunity to view and bid on a silent auction for decorative rain barrels which have been painted by local artists and schools. The barrels will be on display at the Blacksburg Municipal Building from October 20-25, and the winning bid will be announced following the building tour.
More information...

Location:	Tours start at the Municipal Building at the corner of Clay and Washington streets, Blacksburg
Contact:	Meredith Jones jonesmt@comcast.net 540-250-6613
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