Midwest City unveils green building incentive program

August 2, 2010

Indianapolis government leaders have announced a program that provides incentives for property owners and developers to renovate or construct new buildings in a sustainable manner.

According to Tom Spalding’s article in the Indianapolis Star, the program allows for projects built after Aug. 1 to receive up to a 50% rebate on building permit fees associated with the green project. The incentive encourages building owners and developers to integrate sustainable design techniques and practices into building projects.

Allyson Pumphrey, a city project manager, said in a news release that "green" buildings benefit occupants because they typically use less energy and water and have lower operating costs than traditional buildings. They also reduce storm-water runoff, reduce construction waste, and use renewable materials and energy sources.

“Green buildings are an important component of a more sustainable Indianapolis. With this new green building incentive, our desire is to increase the number of green, or sustainable, buildings in Indianapolis, moving us closer to being one of the most sustainable cities in the Midwest,” said Mayor Greg Ballard, in the news release.