Daly City development bids for GreenPoint rating

For three decades, Habitat for Humanity Greater San Francisco has been building affordable homes for working families.

Ranging from single family homes in low-density suburbia to larger transit-oriented condominiums in the heart of the city — each project is closely tailored to complement the community of which it’s a part.

But, regardless of size, one thing all of our developments have in common is their use of the latest design and engineering techniques to reduce their environmental impact.

This fall, Habitat volunteers are working hard building townhomes at Geneva Village in Daly City. Located on the site of an old firehouse, the development is a perfect example of an urban infill project that takes advantage of smaller or unusually-shaped parcels of land for housing.

These homes will be GreenPoint rated — and, after a rigorous independent assessment, will be awarded a rating which clearly outlines that it has met proven environmental standards.

Projects are assessed across five categories: energy efficiency, indoor air quality/health, water conservation, resource conservation and community.

“A GreenPoint Rating is an important tool we use to make sure we are building high-quality homes,” said Doug Fowler, Habitat’s project manager for Geneva Village.

“It will help us determine the best ways to develop energy efficient, durable houses here in Daly City and know that they will make healthy, secure homes for the Habitat families living in them.”

Of the many criteria that will be looked at by independent inspectors, three components are particularly important, says Doug.

“The first is energy efficiency and helping make homes more affordable by keeping utility bills as low as possible.

“The second is durability and being certain that the building is built to last with resilient materials.

“And finally, indoor air quality is crucial and too-often overlooked.”

Doug explains that these new homes will utilize an innovative Energy Recovery Ventilation system which continuously pumps in and filters fresh air from outside. This technology is a proven way of reducing energy costs and these will be the first Habitat Greater San Francisco homes featuring it.

Habitat’s construction team are thrilled to be building affordable homes to the highest environmental standards. Families are expected to move in in 2021.

If you’d like to know more about Habitat Greater San Francisco’s Geneva Village development please visit HabitatGSF.org/Geneva.