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wants the new Keizer transit center to benefit not only the community, but also the environment.

That’s why the firm’s design of the multimillion-dollar facility includes many sustainable features not often found in transit centers.

鈥淭he most unique feature of the facility is the check-mark-shaped roof, which will have photovoltaic panels,鈥� said Kari Turner, a PIVOT associate. 鈥淵ou don’t see many bus stops with green roofs.鈥�

PIVOT also is hoping that the final product will include a geothermal ground loop system for heating and cooling, LED lighting and rain gardens to treat stormwater on-site.

Although the facility will not receive a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design rating 鈥� because no one will work there full time, Turner said 鈥� the project did receive a large sustainability grant from the state. The grant money will help pay for the sustainable features, as well as grass lawns and water features around the bus waiting areas.

鈥淚t looks like a place designed for people rather than something you wait in on the side of the road,鈥� Turner said.

The project is part of Salem-Keizer Transit’s plan to expand transportation access in the northern part of its district. The design includes bus bays, passenger waiting areas, park-and-ride spaces, carpool drop-off and pickup areas and bicycle storage. The park-and-ride lot will include approximately 70 parking spaces.

鈥淎s individuals and communities look for ways to live more sustainably, a well-planned transit system encourages people to leave their cars behind and try alternative methods of transportation,鈥� Turner said.

She said PIVOT does not anticipate many construction challenges, except that the land being used for the $8.2 million (in 2009 dollars) project is 鈥渘ot ideal鈥� for bus circulation.

鈥淥n the Boards鈥� is a weekly feature that spotlights local firms’ best design work. Submissions from architectural and engineering firms are encouraged. Please email [email protected] or call 503-802-7240.