Austin Resource Center for the Homeless
Austin, Texas
Austin Resource Center for the Homeless (ARCH) consists of a two-level, 26,820 square foot support center and shelter for the homeless in Austin.

This project was the recipient of an AIA/CITE 2005 Green Project Award.
Located at East 7th Street and Neches, the ARC houses a medical clinic, an art room, shower facilities, a computer room, offices and an over-night facility. The site was being used as a public parking lot which was demolished and the Resource Center was built on the site. The project was constructed as a single phase. In cooperation with the City's Great Streets Plan, the sidewalks adjacent to the project were widened and trees added. The relocation and adjustment of affected utilities were coordinated with the City of Austin.

UDG, as a subconsultant to LZT Architects, provided all civil engineering and surveying services for the building. The project required site plan approval, utility service and design and permitting of Great Streets sidewalk and 200 l.f. of offsite 8" water line. UDG provided LEED's analysis for all site work.

A 13,000-gallon rainwater collection system supplements the building's water supply. A passive-solar hot-water system preheats water for the showers, and a photovoltaic array supplements electricity usage. Many of the materials used in the project contain rapidly renewable or recycled content. The project also includes FSC-certified wood and a range of locally manufactured materials.