Williamsbridge is developing unique, environmentally efficient housing on 746 E. 214th Street.
Known as passive housing, the development will have a rigorous, voluntary standard for energy efficiency, reducing its ecological footprint, resulting in an ultra-low reduction of energy for the housing that also requires little energy for space heating or cooling.
While reducing energy emissions, this process also reduces energy bills.
“This is the evolution that housing is moving towards,” said Community Board 12 district manager George Torres. “This is going to be something great for our community and great for the environment,” he added.
Constructed by UA Builders Group and developed by Propco Holdings, the four-story building will feature a total of 10 one-bedroom and 2-bedroom units.
Designed to meet passive house certification, the building will offer superior thermal comfort for residents and up to 90% energy reduction savings.
The units also incorporate energy efficient mechanical systems, appliances and fixtures.
Currently, this project is still in the design stage, but is expected to break ground in upcoming months.
Completion is expected for the spring of 2019.
The top floor will contain one unit, a two bedroom, two bath duplex with a private balcony, overlooking the Bronx.
The building will not have an elevator, which will save energy.
Each unit includes a kitchen, full bath, and walk-in closet except for studio units.
All units include electic appliances in addition to water saving, eco friendly faucets.
They also have individually controlled Variable Refrigerant Flow HVAC installed in each apartment.
The building’s passive configuration is specified for high air quality in addtion to energy conservation.
It’s exterior also includes a high glass to wall ratio.
Even though only the duplex has a balcony, the entire building will share a common yardspace in the rear of the building.
“While passive house is still in its early stages in the United States, it is proving to be the new standard in sustainable design, development and construction,” said Albert Gjonbalaj, CEO of UA Builders Group. “To be sure, this project will help us to pave the way for passive house development in New York and beyond.”
UA Builders was also awarded contracts for Bronx projects at 764 E. 152nd Street, 915 Dawson Street, 1081 Tiffany Street, 2061-65 Ryer Avenue, 770 E. 214th Street, 3254-58 Parkside Place, 1827 Waterloo Place and 3168 Villa Avenue. This the ninth project that Propco and UA have teamed up for.
“We’re happy to see permanent housing coming to our district, but more than that, we are happy that this isn’t going to be turned into another homeless shelter,” said Torres.
While most passive housing in the borough has been developed in the south Bronx, so this represents the first of its kind in Williamsbridge.
“I hope this will end up as something cost efficient for residents. If this project is environmentally and financially effective then it’s simply a win,” Torres added.
