Newark’s Lincoln Coast Cultural District Set to Open New Jersey’s First Urban LEED Homes

The first mixed-use buildings in an urban location in the state of New Jersey to pursue a LEED rating are set to officially open next week in Newark. The Washington Street Townhomes, which are awaiting a formal LEED Gold rating from USGBC, will consist of six 3800-square-foot buildings, each featuring two residential units with commercial space on the first floor. The development is being spearheaded by the Lincoln Coast Cultural District, a community development corporation which is aiming to develop a comprehensive arts and cultural district in Newark’s Lincoln Park. The district will ultimately boast 11 LEED-certified buildings, as well as seek a LEED for Neighborhood Development ("LEED-ND") rating under USGBC’s pilot program. When complete, Lincoln Coast’s efforts will redevelop over one million square feet of space and also include a Museum of African-American Music and a Smithsonian Institute affiliate.

The townhomes themselves include a number of LEED-standard green design features, ranging from low-VOC paints, bamboo flooring, and wheat board kitchen cabinets to Energy Star appliances and lighting. The homes also include recycled concrete countertops and are powered (in part) by solar energy. Architects Mikesell & Associates designed the development, and a press conference and ribbon-cutting ceremony are scheduled for Thursday, July 24th at 10:30am at 450-460 Washington Street (enter at West Kinney Street).

• Newark Celebrates First LEED Homes (PR)