This Earth Day has focused us on the importance of living ‘green’ and we have started to implement programs here at the building. To save energy and reduce our carbon footprint, we are going through a program of replacing old light bulbs, and when necessary fixtures, with LED technology. The new LED lighting has been installed in all five stair towers – a total of 45 fixtures. We also installed light sensors that shut off the lights during daylight hours. Electric use has been cut by 95%! We are now asking all new tenants to commit to using LEDs or fluorescent lighting in their studios. Additionally, the ongoing task of fixing windows to be more energy efficient continues. And we are reinvigorating and expanding our building recycling program.

On another front, we are beginning to deploy our free neighborhood wi-fi. This initiative began when we noticed that many neighborhood kids come to our courtyard to use our free wi-fi. We were reminded of a need many of our neighbors might have for internet access. With this in mind, as part of a first step in establishing a ‘Makers’ District’, we have put an array of antennas on the roof to extend our wi-fi access into the local community. There will be more to come on the “Makers’ District” in future newsletters.