As the Delta Conveyance Project (DCP) advances, DCA is applying the Envision Sustainable Infrastructure Rating System developed by the Institute for Sustainable Infrastructure (ISI) as a performance assessment tool.

Early evaluations are positive. Using current planning and design, the DCP would earn at least 25 percent of total points under the framework which exceeds the minimum threshold for an award, as shown in the diagram. This score reflects foundational sustainability measures already built into the project, like the Final Environmental Impact Report (FEIR) commitment to divert half of construction waste materials from landfills.

As the Basis of Design Report (BODR) progresses and more sustainability practices are considered feasible, the project could earn more points to reach higher award levels. The team will continue to identify new sustainability opportunities as the project moves into future phases.

Using Envision as a benchmarking tool has informed where sustainability can be more intentionally incorporated into the project. One example is lighting. As a result of this evaluation, DCA plans to require all non-safety-related lighting to meet backlight, uplight, and glare (BUG) standards, helping to minimize light pollution.

DCA is also developing a programmatic sustainability plan that will establish preliminary baselines and targets and provide a consistent framework for tracking and reporting sustainability performance over time.

While the project is not pursuing formal ISI verification, and therefore does not incur certification-related costs, Envision remains a valuable tool for guiding decisions. More information on DCA’s sustainability approach can be found here.