Habitat for Humanity Green Infrastructure Statewide Demonstraton
| Author: Nancy Givens Date: Friday, August 19th, 2011 |  Return |
The WKU-Habitat for Humanity project at Durbin Estate has been recommended for PUD approval by the Planning and Zoning Commission. It can now move into the next phase of implementation. Arnold Consulting and Engineering Services (ACES) will now develop detailed construction plans for the road and utility layouts and green infrastructure features, with implementation planned to begin in early spring, 2012. This is a partnership project between WKU, Habitat for Humanity and many other regional partners. Initial funding for the integrated green infrastructure was awarded under an EPA 319(h) grant for nonpoint source pollution prevention, through the Kentucky Division of Water (KDOW). The project is a statewide demonstration for developing a mixed income, mixed use green affordable housing neighborhood. Important goals of the project included education, professional training, community outreach, and potentially impacting policy revisions. Durbin Estate will eventually comprise up to 49 housing units, a community center, outdoor amphitheater, walking trails, community gardens, rain gardens, edible landscaping, native species plantings, and increased tree cover.
After more than a year of planning, the WKU-Habitat for Humanity (HFH) Durbin Project broke ground on Friday, Aug. 3rd with the installation of a vernal pond. Most of the work was completed as planned, with wetland plantings to be done later this fall.
The season of Fall welcomes Potter-Gray Elementary School to Trammel Creek in Alvaton, KY to learn about water quality testing.
The CEES has been awarded a 3-year $655,000 grant 319(h) nonpoint source (NPS) pollution grant from the Kentucky Division of Water. This is a partnership project between WKU, Habitat for Humanity and other regional partners.
The Center's office associate, Trish Sowell worked with CCC teacher, Linda Jenkins, and CCC's facilities associate, Dan Burch, with planning and developing an area for the pre- kindergarden students to plant seeds and study the growth of plants.
The CEES has been awarded a 3-year $655,000 grant 319(h) nonpoint source (NPS) pollution grant from the Kentucky Division of Water. This is a partnership project between WKU, Habitat for Humanity and other regional partners.
