Students will get the chance to see what types of projects are being worked on in Muncie through the Ball State EcoREHAB immersive learning program and sustainability methods of the project.
EcoREHAB works with Muncie Community Development and the local EcoREHAB of Muncie Inc. to bring sustainability to existing properties in the area.
Projects include rehabilitation of properties according to standards that promote sustainable and green construction, and providing resources to current homeowners to promote sustainable practices and management, according to the EcoREHAB page on Ball State’s website.
The initiative, which was started in 2009, is spear-headed by Jonathan Spodek, associate professor in the Department of Architecture. Spodek also co-founded EcoREHAB of Muncie Inc.
According to a letter of affirmation from Spodek in August 2012, the organization has already rehabilitated two houses and is working on a third. The students in the program take part in every step of the process from budgeting to construction.
The initiative has received grants from the Muncie Economic Development Block Program and the Ball Brothers Foundation for the two houses. According to the website, a goal of the organization is to be able to sell these homes at an affordable price to low- and moderate-income residents and families.
The project has received the Mary Frances Abel Award from the Muncie Historic Preservation and Rehabilitation Commission for its renovation of a historic house. The award was created in 1988 and was named after a local historian. The award is based solely on exterior improvements, according to the award’s application.
Past presentations by EcoREHAB have included tips and training on how to rehab and manage a house and optimizing space to be eco-friendly and energy efficient. It also introduced ideas on how to recycle materials for use in the rehabilitation process.
That training is another goal of the program, which aims to provide assistance for private home owners and other organizations in the realm of sustainable design.
The presentation will be held today at 10:15 a.m. in Architecture Building room 100.
