The Village of Orland Park's Smart Living Team hosted its "Green Fair 2010" on Saturday, April 24th from 9:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at the Orland Park Civic Center.
Smart Living Orland Park, is the village's comprehensive green initiative, providing environmentally based programs and resources for residents, businesses and government in an effort to conserve energy and promote sustainability. "The community has responded warmly to the village's green initiative," said Orland Park Mayor Dan McLaughlin. "A number of people have asked for a centralized source of information for all things green," he added.
Businesses that offer environmentally friendly products or services are invited to rent tables at the fair. Susan Marrow from ENCAP, Inc. and Phil Wolf from Manhard Consulting went to the fair and surveyed attendees in an effort to gauge public interest in LEED buildings, green infrastructure and energy conservation. Here are some of the highlighted results of the 22 surveys:
Knowledge level of Green Development: 27% of surveyed people stated that they had a moderate to high knowledge level of Green Development.
Current Outdoor Activities: Hiking, Gardening, Biking and Walking were the highest rated outdoor activities. Hunting, Cross Country Skiing, and Fishing were among the lowest rated outdoor activities.
Important Green Measures: Public Transit, Walking Trails, Water Conservation, and Native Landscaping were rated among the highest rated green measures. Super insulation, Photo Voltaic, and Thermal Comfort were rating among the lowest.
LEED Familiarity: 59% were aware of LEED, 41% unaware.
81% stated that they would consider purchasing a LEED home if the cost was 5% more but paid for itself in less than 10 years.
Time spent on landscaping per week: 0 hrs= 27%, 1-2 hrs = 27%, 3-5hrs =23%, 5-10 hrs = 18%, 10-15 hrs = 5%
Consider using Native Landscaping to reduce maintenance? Yes 95%, No 5%
If you would like more information on Orland Park's Smart Living Program click here.
Want to move to Orland Park? Consider these fine homes by Gallagher & Henry.
We are proud this month to feature a project recently completed by our restoration contracting specialists and streambank specialists. Acting as a primary contractor for the Village of Glenview and implementing a project funded by a 319 grant and other local funding, ENCAP, Inc. was able to complete the project ahead of schedule and under budget.
Feel free to contact me with any questions or comments regarding this newsletter. If you have a project or an event that you would like highlighted don't hesitate to ask. 
