How to Document SSc2 with Map Data

Choose your option

For more general guidance on SSc2: Development Density and Community Connectivity, see the LEEDuser credit page (see NC, CS, CI, or Schools versions).

Typically, the requisite neighborhood density for Option 1 of 60,000 ft2 per acre can be met by two-story downtown development, or a denser area. The requirements for Option 2 can typically be met in a variety of settings, from dense urban areas to rural small towns with some density of services. Option 2 is usually easier to document, but Option 1 gives you the chance to aim for an extra point through Exemplary PerformanceIn LEED, certain credits have established thresholds beyond basic credit achievement. Meeting these thresholds can earn additional points through Innovation in Design (ID) or Innovation in Operations (IO) points. As a general rule of thumb, ID credits for exemplary performance are awarded for doubling the credit requirements and/or achieving the next incremental percentage threshold. However, this rule varies on a case by case basis, so check the credit requirements..

Instructions for both options are below.

SSc2 – Option 1: Development Density – How to draw the density boundary

1) In Google Earth or Google Maps, use the Ruler or Distance Measurement...

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3 Comments

Rona Easton Mar 08 2010

development density radius

Anybody have any suggestions on what size of area to cover for this credit?

Post a Reply

Shannon Gray replied Consultant, YRG sustainability Mar 08 2010

Rona,

I think the answer you are looking for is covered in the credit page on LEEDuser (see below). Let me know if you have a more specific question and we can help you out.

Check that your project can comply, using these three steps:
1.Divide the total project square footage by the total site area in acres. (The minimum density required by this credit is 60,000 ft2 per acre).

2.Convert the total site area in acres to square feet (acres X 43,560 square feet) and find the square root of this number. Then multiply the result by 3 to determine the appropriate density radius in feet. Density Radius = 3 x √ [site area in acres x 43,560 ft2/acre].

3.Define a circle based on the density radius to serve as the density boundary. Add the square footage of all buildings within the boundary and divide by the total area of all sites in the density boundary in acres. Include both the entire floor area and entire site area for all properties within and intersected by the density boundary (i.e., where the radius boundary intersects a building, even if only partially). Be sure to include your project site as well. Parks and water bodies can be excluded from the density boundary area.

Best,
Shannon

Rona Easton replied Mar 09 2010

thanks so much!

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