News: Owners Developers & Managers

The latest trends in solar design: Powering up parking lots with PV solar electric systems

Parking garages are offering more than just shelter for your car. They are a means to produce clean renewable energy. The installation of PV solar electric systems on parking structures, as well as open carports, is the latest trend in solar design. There are many different PV solar applications, with parking garages being another innovative approach to PV solar with a solid return on investment. Parking garages have open top-levels and unobstructed views to the sun, making them a perfect vessel for a PV solar electric system. Who knew parking garages would be a place for sustainable energy solutions. With customized tilt angles to maximize energy output, these PV systems (also known as solar parking canopies) are able to withstand winter snow load and are designed to control water runoff. They are highly reliable and have a low operating cost. Additionally, as more and more of these systems go up, they are blending seamlessly into the aesthetics and functionality of the parking structure itself. Columbia Construction Company recently developed a renewable energy plan for the 404 Wyman St.in Waltham Mass., a property owned and managed by Hobbs Brook Management. Based on our studies to determine the best possible means of installing a PV solar electric system on the site, it was determined that the two existing parking structures on the 404 Wyman Street site were the most efficient and effective locations. Columbia's renewable energy plan called for the installation of new, long-span, galvanized structural steel structure on the top level of the existing North & South parking garages. The sloped steel and PV solar system elegantly crowns the existing parking garage, and creates a highly visible commitment to sustainability. It also creates a covered and protected parking area at the top level of the garage for Hobbs Brook Management tenants. Electric vehicle charging stations will also be utilized for tenant use. The project is among the many initiatives that support Hobbs Brook Management's commitment to provide its tenants with a fully functional and sustainable business environment. Once complete, the photovoltaic system will include 2390 solar modules, and is expected to generate 815,000 kilowatt hours of solar-generated electricity per year. It is also expected that maintenance costs will be dramatically reduced by this new covered parking area. The project is scheduled to be completed this fall. Chris McCarthy is a vice president of Columbia Construction Company and manager of the Columbia Energy division, North Reading, Mass.
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NAI Glickman Kovago & Jacobs sell Quail Hollow Golf & Country Club for $2.3 million

Oakham, MA NAI Glickman Kovago & Jacobs has sold Quail Hollow Golf & Country Club, located at 1822 Old Turnpike Rd. for $2.3 million. The course will continue to operate as an 18- hole golf course under new management.
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Columns and Thought Leadership
Brownfield redevelopment: Sometimes it’s not just about economic development - by George Naslas

Brownfield redevelopment: Sometimes it’s not just about economic development - by George Naslas

The redevelopment of brownfield sites is often associated with the revitalization of a property to bring it back into productive use, generate local tax revenue, and increase local employment. Redevelopment can also be part of a green or open space development, such as a riverwalk, park, or rail trail.
Capitalizing on next-gen electric vehicle  charging in New York/New England real estate - by Hooman Shahidi

Capitalizing on next-gen electric vehicle charging in New York/New England real estate - by Hooman Shahidi

For property owners and developers, tenant experience is everything. This means top-notch building amenities and technology integrations that match their lifestyle. As the electric vehicle (EV) industry grows, EV charging is at the top of their list of amenities.
The value of comfort: The workplace will never be as convenient as home, but it can be as comfortable - by Steve Hibbard

The value of comfort: The workplace will never be as convenient as home, but it can be as comfortable - by Steve Hibbard

In real estate construction and development, there are numerous balances struck between comfort and affordability. We all want the class A office space with artisanal trimmed offices, brilliant lighting, silent air systems, and the hilltop belvedere view from the executive suite. Everyone wants that coveted corner office.
You can’t manage  what you don’t measure - by Jay O'Connor

You can’t manage what you don’t measure - by Jay O'Connor

Reasons to submeter electrical and HVAC Loads At standalone and multi-unit properties. As a property owner or manager, we all should understand the importance of managing costs, promoting conservation efforts, and maintaining compliance with regulations. Submetering is a powerful tool that can help you achieve these goals and more.