https://vimeo.com/21961403]
In 2009, Michael Tucker was one of a handful of students from the Miles School of Business Credit chosen to participate in a special program, The Vineyards at 16th. Located on 16th and Ridge Avenue, The Vineyards are all-green, high-rise apartment complexes.
Tucker is the sustainable designer. He makes sure that the complexes are built with the most organic and environmentally friendly materials.
Tucker has been working with the city to acquire zoning and building permits, along with signing numerous other green companies, like NuTone and Crestron, to help with the project.
Everything in the apartments will be eco-friendly, from the kitchen appliances to the showers. The heating and air conditioning units are also environmentally friendly; the heat comes from pipes in the floors rather than air ducts.
There are also solar panels on the roof to help generate natural energy for the building.
Tucker and his team have a number of events planned to introduce the project to the community and the public. After completion of the first building, there will be a “green tie event.” Tucker explained that it is a “fundraiser for the Francisville Neighborhood Corp.’s efforts to establish the Francis Marketplace at 16th and Ridge Avenue.”
There are other events, including a High School/College Eco Discovery Day, with hopes that the community will become familiar with the mission behind the apartment buildings.
When asked why Francisville was chosen, Tucker said, “The area is dilapidated. It’s time for a rebirth … I always tell people that I believe personally that this area is the next Northern Liberties.”
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