SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
As Wake Forest continues to grow, it should strive to set itself apart in the region as a community committed to sustainability. By supporting a healthy, sustainable environment and promoting green development practices, the Town can help ensure the well-being of residents and the protection of its natural assets for generations to come.
Adaptive Reuse
Adaptive reuse is the method of repurposing or “recycling” an existing structure for a new use other than for what it was initially intended for. Adaptive reuse can be used to bring life to aged, underutilized, or disinvested buildings in the community that are still structurally sound and feature desirable built form. It can also be leveraged to preserve Wake Forest’s historic structures and heritage while supporting new, activated uses.
Green Buildings
Green buildings are buildings that are designed to reduce or eliminate negative impacts on the environment and human health. They are efficient structures that reduce the resources used (energy, water, and materials) through improved siting, design, construction, operation, maintenance, and removal. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Certifications are awarded to development that meets the sustainability standards of the Green Building Rating System.
CASE STUDY
WEST GEER STREET
DURHAM, NORTH CAROLINA
Located at the edge of Downtown Durham, West Geer Street between Foster Street and Madison Street features successful examples adaptive reuse. Many seemingly obsolete buildings like former auto repair shops or industrial buildings were repurposed into trendy new restaurants, lounges, and bars with façade art and outdoor patios. Through repurposing older structures, the area was able to retain much of its original gritty character, while reinvestment stimulated new energy and activity into the area. Nearby apartment buildings also contribute to resident foot traffic and the economic viability of the area. A similar approach should be considered for repurposing existing auto-oriented structures along S White Street, such as unique food and drink establishments and collaborative workspaces.
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PUBLIC DRAFT 1/11/2022
COMMUNITY PLAN UPDATE | TOWN OF WAKE FOREST
