Villebois: A Sustainable Neighborhood

Sustainability is a term most often used to describe environmental conservation and protection.  Sustainability at Villebois, however, has a larger meaning: to create a community that is sustainable socially and economically, as well as environmentally.  This kind of far-reaching sustainability creates true community; neighborhoods that are safe because neighbors know and look out for one another; streets built for pedestrians as well as for drivers; thriving local businesses that reflect and meet the community’s interests and needs and a wide variety of green spaces that encourage outdoor activity and social interaction, while protecting natural habitats.

Social Sustainability

• According to annual statistics gathered by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, only 30 to 40 percent of Americans engage in regular, sustained exercise, while an additional 30 percent are completely inactive.  Villebois’ design encourages physical activity with numerous green spaces, bicycle paths, and pedestrian trails throughout the community. In addition, the Village Center shops and restaurants are within a comfortable walking distance of each neighborhood.

• “Green streets” encourage walking and biking while managing rainwater.

• Every aspect of the Villebois’ pedestrian-friendly design encourages community-building, from front porches and rear access garages to wide sidewalks that separate pedestrians from traffic.

• A lively Village Center will provide residents with opportunities for passive and active recreation, from enjoying a latte and reading a book in the plaza to playing a game of bocce ball in a nearby park.

Economic Sustainability

• Villebois will increase Wilsonville’s population by an estimated 7,000 residents.  Currently, there are 10,000 more jobs in the city than workers. The Villebois community will help the jobs to housing imbalance.

• Villebois’ Village Center serves the dual purpose of providing residents with convenient access to basic needs — whether a quart of milk or a cup of coffee — and supporting merchants to help grow the local economy.

Environmental Sustainability

• Villebois contains extensive areas of wetlands and wildlife habitat, mostly associated with the Coffee Lake Creek wetlands and floodplain. In addition, a large number of mature trees are being preserved and act as a primary amenity for the community.

• A state-of-the-art Rainwater Management System will improve water quality and quantity control more than a conventional stormwater system.

To learn more about the Villebois or its sustainable development and building practices in Wilsonville, Oregon, please visit ChangeHowYouLive.com. You may also speak with Costa Pacific Homes New Home Specialist Andy Green by calling 866.580.2836 or emailing Blog@CostaPacific.com.

Written by Andy Green
Email: Andy@CostaPacific.com
Visit Website: http://www.CostaPacific.com

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