Foundation Communities: Waterloo Terrace
Background
Foundation Communities (FC) is an Austin-based nonprofit that provides affordable housing and free on-site supportive services to over 7,000 residents across 28 Austin communities as well as 3 more in the DFW metroplex. Constructed in 2020, Waterloo Terrace is one of FC’s permanent supportive housing communities, with 132 studio homes for low-income single adults. Due to an array of decarbonization, energy efficiency, and water savings measures, Waterloo Terrace is roughly 40% less energy intensive than the ASHRAE 90.1 2019 standard for a mid-rise apartment.
Solutions
Waterloo Terrace features 180 kW of solar, producing renewable energy that reduces operating costs, allowing FC to reinvest those savings into more robust supportive services for their residents. FC estimates that the solar has avoided 226 metric tons of CO2e and contributes to a low energy-use-intensity at the property.
In addition to rooftop solar, FC implemented energy efficiency measures at Waterloo Terrace. The organization installed easy-to-maintain in-unit HVACs that combine 1:1 packaged terminal heat pumps with a centralized Energy Recovery Ventilator. These “hybrid” heat pumps are located in exterior closets which are accessible directly outside of the unit. This ensures that maintenance staff can do regular preventive maintenance without bothering the residents. FC also invested in an energy-efficient building envelope with the use of 2x6 walls with R-19 cavity insulation and R-6 continuous insulation, advanced air sealing, and energy-efficient windows. Additionally, the property contains 100% LED lighting and ENERGY STAR® appliances.
Waterloo Terrace also features water savings measures such as ultra-low-flow toilets and faucets, 100% native and drought-tolerant landscape, and rain gardens. Because of these measures, the property has received a LEED Gold Certification, an Austin Energy Green Building (AEGB) 4-star rating, and the Better Buildings Initiative 2023 Better Project Award.
The total cost of the development of Waterloo Terrace was $27.2 million. Tax credit equity totaled $15 million, state funding totaled $2 million, city funding totaled $6.4 million, and the remaining $3.8 million came from FHLB San Francisco, Capital Magnet Funds, the St. David’s Foundation, the Meadows Foundation, Wells Fargo, the Topfer Family Foundation, and several individual donors.
Other Benefits
All units at Waterloo Terrace are for low-income residents, with 20% of units prioritized for previously homeless individuals and another 20% for individuals with special needs. The Waterloo Terrace community is designed to be inward-facing around a large, fully accessible courtyard for relaxing, gardening, and socializing. The property’s large green space provides residents with improved indoor air quality, access to healthy, fresh food, and mental health benefits. Rainwater gardens filter stormwater from the roof and create a lush landscape for residents to enjoy.
Air quality is particularly important at Waterloo Terrace due to its proximity to a major regional highway. To reduce the exposure to high levels of particulate matter and protect residents with a high occurrence of respiratory issues, the building was situated as far as possible from the highway. To promote indoor air quality, Waterloo Terrace utilizes a dedicated fresh air system, low-VOC paints, sealants and adhesives, formaldehyde-free cabinets, and allergen-resistant durable flooring.
Waterloo Terrace and all other FC properties maximize energy efficiency through day-to-day operations and long-term asset management programs. Notably, all FC property managers and lead maintenance staff earn the National Affordable Housing Management Association Credential for Green Property Management. Green living classes are offered to residents on a regular basis, and each new resident receives a green welcome home basket that includes a recycling bin, green cleaning kit, and information on energy-saving tips.
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