Say Yes to the Scarsdale Community Center

I am in favor of the current Scarsdale Community Center proposal to build the indoor pool at the Scarsdale outdoor pool site, because the underground design will have the following unique advantages: the preservation of open space in our fully developed community, lower maintenance costs as compared to conventional buildings, wind, fire and earthquake proof public space that could shelter residents during an emergency; and energy efficiency.

Yes, I am concerned about the financial impact on our community, but I trust the SCC Board of Directors and this Village Board to find a way to continue to invest in Scarsdale. We need to keep our village  as the place to live, not only for our excellent schools, but also for our Village amenities.

Here is my research on this topic:

Advantages of Building Underground

Underground houses have many advantages over conventional housing. Unlike conventional homes, they can be built on steep surfaces and can maximize space in small areas by going below the ground. In addition the materials excavated in construction can be used in the building process.

Underground houses have less surface area so fewer building materials are used, and maintenance costs are lower. They are also wind, fire and earthquake resistant, providing a secure and safe environment in extreme weather.

One of the greatest benefits of underground living is energy efficiency. The earth's subsurface temperature remains stable, so underground dwellings benefit from geothermal mass and heat exchange, staying cool in the summer and warm in the winter. This saves around 80% in energy costs. By incorporating solar design this energy bill can be reduced to zero, providing hot water and heat to the home all year round. An additional benefit of the surrounding earth is noise insulation. Underground homes are exceptionally quiet places to live.

Finally, underground houses blend with the natural landscape, and have minimum impact on the local ecology. This is not only aesthetically pleasing but ensures that the maximum habitat is left alone for wildlife.

Designing Down for a Sustainable Future

Underground construction is not a new industry, but it is often overlooked as a design strategy for sustainable building. A well-designed underground home can be a stylish, comfortable, secure, bright and inspiring place to live. More than that it is an excellent example of the eco-home ideal, demonstrating energy efficiency, low-impact design and harmony with its natural surroundings. With the increasing demand for more development sites and ever-diminishing green spaces, along with the enforcement of stricter regulations for greener homes, building underground seems the obvious way down. http://www.sustainablebuild.co.uk/ConstructionUnderground.html

Very truly yours,

Lena Crandall
227 Fox Meadow Road
Scarsdale, New York 10583