CEES News

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.