MLK Apartments

The new MLK Apartment building at Depot Plaza, in Tucson, Arizona provides 68 housing units for the elderly and disabled. The six-story building, completed in late 2010, includes amenities such as a general store, tenant counselor, medical aide, computer room, library and community gathering area. The project fronts a major public plaza and transit hub, the renovated Ronstadt Transit Center, and thus promotes pedestrian activity and use of mass transit. Covered bicycle racks are provided, as is preferred parking for low-emitting and fuel efficient vehicles and car-pools. As parking is underground, the urban heat island effect is reduced and landscaping at street level is maximized. Mechanical systems and lighting provide residents a high degree of control over their indoor environment and comfort. Weather stripping and tight construction also gives each unit general protection from airborne substances. The project’s high indoor environmental quality plus its many energy and resource saving strategies add up to a LEED Silver Level Certification.