The Southwest Virginia Chapter of the USGBC kickoff meeting for 2009 was held at a newly built #3 Firehouse on Williamson Road. This is a relocation of the airport firehouse #10 and the old old #3. The location is smack dab in the middle of the Williamson Road activities. Coordination with the transportation department on signal controls seems to have worked out. Traffic briefly stops when calls are answered.
It was one of those nights in Roanoke that was on the verge of a monster snow/ice storm but instead we got 33 degree rain. Gloomy night to be out, however since this was a tour I was looking forward to seeing, it was worth staying out in the yuck a little. The great men and women of firehouse #3 were nice enough to let our group invade their surroundings for a tour and meeting, even during their dinner. Thanks to them for letting us see part of their world. We even got to witness a real call going out.
The firehouse is currently 
in the middle of LEED certification, seeking LEED Gold. Some of the very interesting sustainable features include:
A rainwater collection system for toilet flushing and firetruck washing,
On site Bio retention pond – small but effective check out the video of Steve explaining the system,
Bike Rack and Neighborhood integration,
LED lighting and sensors,
in kitchen composter and recycling,
Soy based insulation,
Video LEED education programs.
Overall the building is efficient and well organized. It hopes to serve its occupants as they serve the public.
between yellow and blue 
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