LOCH SHELDRAKE, NY—July 11, 2024 — In 2010, SUNY Sullivan commissioned the construction of eco-friendly townhouses that were ahead of their time. Designed and built by the Goshen-based Ruby Group, these student residences have stood as a model of sustainability and energy efficiency for over a decade, earning accolades and certifications, including a Platinum LEED rating.

The EcoGreen Townhouses will welcome students this fall. (See related story, “SUNY Sullivan trims down” on page 3.) Housing up to 48 students across three side-by-side units, each townhouse offers a blend of modern amenities and traditional New England architectural charm featuring a full eat-in kitchen, living room, multiple bathrooms, a washer/dryer and porches. The interiors offer hardwood floors, energy-efficient components such as Energy Star-rated appliances and tankless water heaters. High-speed Internet access and in-unit laundry facilities round out the list of conveniences.

“We were way ahead of any other school in the region and even nationally when we built the ECO townhouses,” said Pete Berman, CEO of the Ruby Group. “In partnership with the college, we pushed the boundaries to create a better, more sustainable living space, and it has paid off. The environment is healthy, energy costs are very reasonable, and we are excited to welcome resident students in the fall.”

One of the few construction companies in the nation to build homes that achieve the Platinum LEED rating, the Ruby Group applied its expertise to create student housing that met or exceeded both LEED and Energy Star standards. 

The result was a set of townhouses that not only reduced energy costs over their lifespan but also generated goodwill among a generation of students who are increasingly aware of environmental issues.

The construction process included the use of sustainable building materials such as bamboo, and other certified-sustainable wood products. Superior insulation in walls, roofs and foundations, along with tight-fitting, factory-built components, ensure minimal drafts and maximize energy efficiency. The buildings also feature high-efficiency heating systems and state-of-the-art tankless hot water heaters.

In addition to these features, the townhouses incorporate advanced green technologies such as geothermal systems, solar panels and heat pumps. Cisterns collect water for landscaping, further reducing the environmental footprint. The builders recycled debris generated from the building process.

Finally, “the college’s eco townhouses serve as a daily reminder to students and to the community of the importance of ecological responsibility and the impact of thoughtful construction,” a college spokesperson said. 

The housing fees for the fall semester are $3,900 per semester for a double room and $3,600 per semester for a triple room. A $100 programming fee funds various residential programs and services. 

For more information, email the college’s residence life coordinator at reslife@sunysullivan.edu, or call 845/436-4890.

Contributed by SUNY Sullivan.