Press Release from Councilmember Jim Graham

Washington, DC - New construction in the District would have to meet strict environmental standards starting in late 2007, under a bill unanimously passed by the DC Council today. 

"This bill means cleaner air and water, healthier students and more productive employees," said Councilmember Jim Graham, who introduced the Green Building Act with Chairman Linda Cropp, Councilmember Phil Mendelson (At Large) and Councilmember Sharon Ambrose (Ward Six). "Here, we also have the chance to take the lead among green cities." 

Councilmember Graham held three hearings on this bill, and pressed to move it forward this year. 

District government buildings would meet green building standards first, by 2007. Buildings funded by the District would follow in 2008. Then, in 2012, private buildings would be required to meet the standards.

"We've achieved near total consensus here," said Councilmember Graham. "The task force I put together included all the stakeholders, from environmentalists and city planners to engineers and builders. They met six times. We have a bill that has wonderful support."

For more information on the LEED green building standards, please visit the U.S. Green Building Council website.

The District of Columbia Green Building Act of 2005 is available online here.

Alan Heymann Director, Communications and Constituent Services
Councilmember Jim Graham

http://www.grahamwone.com

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