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Green Works Orlando Green Updates

September 2008

September 26

Bicycle Friendly Community Award
The City of Orlando’s designation as a Bicycle Friendly Community was officially renewed on Wednesday, September 24 by the League of American Bicyclists. The League awards this four-year designation to communities that have made impressive, measurable efforts to integrate bicyclists into the community. Orlando was one of nineteen cities across the nation to renew this designation and was joined by ten new communities this year.

The City of Orlando remains committed to upholding this designation, while striving to be more innovative. We have increased coverage for arterial bike lanes (one direction) to 48 percent or 48.2 miles for 100 miles of arterial roadway. In 2007 and 2008 the City passed out 200 sets of lights at various events, 150 locks and over 200 helmets. We worked closely with several local bike-friendly businesses to arrange bike parking. The City continues to partner with local organizations to maximize community outreach and education.

First Hybrid Vehicles Launched in City Fleet
The City of Orlando’s first hybrid vehicles have hit the streets. On Tuesday, September 23, the City officially placed five Ford Escape Hybrids into service as part of its sustainability program, “Green Works Orlando.” The Escapes will be used in the Public Works Department and used to perform service calls and make deliveries to residents.

Beyond a positive environmental impact, the new vehicles will also save the City money. The fuel cost for the new hybrids is about half compared to the vehicles they are replacing. Additionally, the hybrid vehicles retain more of their value. This means that the City will be able to make more money at auction when they sell the hybrids in the future. More hybrids will be put into service beginning in early 2009.

September 12

Florida’s First LEED Certified Fire Station

The City of Orlando is excited to announce that Fire Station 15 officially became the first LEED certified fire station in the state of Florida. This prestigious designation was awarded to the City by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC).
The City of Orlando has designed and built four fire stations with the goal of LEED certification, with more on the way. The City is proud to lead the way in protecting the environment with these LEED certified public buildings while being fiscally responsible with efficient and cost effective design.