New and exciting things are happening with the Concord/Kannapolis Rider transit System. Recently, Concord City Council approved a bid for a new Transit Center, which will incorporate many environmentally friendly features.  The transit center will serve as a hub to transfer passengers from one route to the other, as well as contain passenger amenities such as customer service and restrooms.  The center will also have office space for transit staff, dispatch, and a police sub-station.  The Rider system has operated from a temporary hub since its beginning 5 years ago.
 
In an effort to continue our going green initiatives with the City of Concord, the design includes criteria that will meet the LEED standards. What are LEED standards? Well LEED stands for The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System, developed by the U.S. Green Building Council. These standards are for environmentally sustainable construction.
 
The City of Concord had to come up with a project checklist to meet the criteria for our bid process. It is anticipated that once complete the project will meet the LEED Silver or Gold certification for sustainable design.
 
Why is this good? For one, a vegetative roof is specified for this project.Numerous benefits are derived by using plants and other vegetation on rooftops.  These benefits include enhanced stormwater management with the roof absorbing stormwater (thus reducing runoff), energy conservation, increased longevity of roofing membranes, as well as providing a more aesthetically pleasing environment in which to work.
 
Many of the materials used in construction will either be of recycled content, low-emitting, regional, or natural materials, and high-efficiency components.  
A short list of some of these items are: a vegetative roof, occupancy sensors, water efficient landscaping, water use reduction, high efficiency mechanical equipment, use of rapidly renewable materials such as cork and incorporation of regional recycled materials such as brick.  The building is also designed to make maximum use of daylight for interior lighting.  
 
All of the materials and other items are designed to protect the environment, which is good for all of us and the future of this planet. The new Transit Center is another example of the area conservation initiatives implemented to expand energy and water conservation and enhance environmental stewardship. Additional features include offices, restrooms, and additional and much needed space.
 
Bids were opened on June 18 for the construction of the Transit Center with Molando-Holden the low bid at $1,990,300. 80% of the project funding will be provided through a grant from the Federal Transit Administration with an additional 10% coming from the State.  Construction should begin soon at the 3600 S. Ridge Avelocation.
 
  For more information about the Concord/Kannapolis Rider Transit System, visit the City of Concord website at www.concordnc.gov