HCA announces Broadlands Regional Medical Center will seek LEED certification.

I heard today that HCA Virginia has decided to seek LEED certification on their Broadlands Regional Medical Center (BRMC) facility. You might recall that another Loudoun company, Middleburg Bank, has engaged in this process as well with their Fort Evans branch. The BRMC certificate will be the LEED Certification for Health Care. From the press release:

In its pursuit of LEED Certification and on behalf of area residents, BRMC has pledged to take the following steps, among other actions:

• Treat storm runoff before it leaves the site to protect adjacent stream channels from erosion and to reduce phosphorous discharge.
• Use special outdoor lighting and window treatments that address light overflow.
• Install water-saving bath fixtures such as low-flow sinks, toilets and showers.
• Utilize an energy management consultant to identify other energy economies.
• Obtain National Wildlife Federation designation as a Backyard Wildlife Habitat, using food, water and native vegetation that supports wildlife common to the area.
• Employ tree conservation techniques and set aside a tree save area, provide nearly four acres for a Community Healing Garden, and use a professional forester/certified arborist to plant and landscape open spaces on campus using native species and low water plants.
• Install two bus shelters to encourage the use of mass transit and provide special parking areas for bicycles and energy efficient vehicles.
• Provide a buffer far exceeding county standards between the hospital entrance and the closest residence on Broadlands Boulevard.

It’s clear that HCA is working harder than most to be good neighbors to Loudoun’s citizens. The LEED certification isn’t a requirement for businesses in Virginia and it wasn’t a requirement for the Certificate of Public Need issued to them several years ago. It’s a sign of respect for the community and the environment we all share. It’s a commendable move and, speaking for this family of Loudouners, it’s appreciated. Well done, HCA.