DEVELOPER DEEPENS ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENT

Starting this year, a Built Green 4-Star rating and Energy Star® (or its equivalent) becomes standard for builders starting new homes at Issaquah Highlands.

ISSAQUAH | The most recent bold step at Issaquah Highlands has been the raising of the bar for energy efficiency for all new homes.

Starting this year, the new Built GreenTM 4-Star rating and Energy Star (or its equivalent) become standard for builders starting new homes. The 4-Star rating and the Energy Star label signify that an independent, third-party verifier visits each home to verify that it meets all requirements for certification. Homes are rated on everything from energy efficiency, construction techniques, air quality and water conservation initiatives to solar design features.

Issaquah Highlands is the first community in the region to require new homes to be built with the 4-Star rating and was key in having Energy Star label added to the Built Green program.

"Many builders claim to build energy efficient homes, but builders of Energy Star qualified homes can prove it. This recognized and trusted label assures residents that their homes are at least 15 percent more energy efficient than typical new homes," says Ruth Winbauer, marketing director for Port Blakely Communities.

Energy Star qualified homes feature high efficiency heating and cooling systems, well-sealed duct systems, increased insulation, and Energy Star appliances, lighting and windows.

"The Energy Star label gives home buyers peace mind that their home is energy efficient, costs less to operate, and is gentler on the environment," says Winbauer.

"Our first guiding principle at Issaquah Highlands is 'Sustainability and Stewardship'," says Judd Kirk of Port Blakely Communities. "We are unequivocally dedicated to creating a thriving, efficient, sustainable community that cares for and preserves the natural environment today and for generations to come."

This past spring, Port Blakely Communities was honored with the Green Globe "Leadership in Sustainable Building" Award by King County for encouraging the wise use of resources in their building practices. The company was also lauded by the city of Issaquah in 2004, naming it a leader in building green and by the Pacific Coast Builders Conference with a prestigious Gold Nugget Award for its Puget Sound Energy Built Green Idea home.

"Clearly, Port Blakely Communities is not content with 'business as usual'," says Kirk. "The company continually raises the standards of environmental stewardship for itself and its builders. As new advances in Built Green and Energy Star are made, you can be sure that Port Blakely will be at the forefront, leading the way."

Getting there: From I-90 take Exit 18 (the new Sunset interchange). Follow Highlands Drive up the hill and turn right on Northeast Federal Drive. Turn right again on Northeast Park Drive and follow signs to the New Home Info Center.

Developer: Port Blakely Communities.