Metric Kicks Off ‘Net Zero’ Housing at Devens

DEVENS — Metric Corp. President Geoff Caraboolad joined MassDevelopment President and CEO Marty Jones this week to fete the launch of a dozen townhouses being built here on Bates Street, units dubbed by the sponsor as “super energy efficient” and yet also being touted as moderately priced and attractive. Brighton-based Metric was culled from a list of competing developers for the right to acquire residential lots at the former Fort Devens, with a focus on delivering sustainable product.

Intent on toiling through the winter, Metric Construction is engaging its subsidiary, Devens Net Zero LLC, in the initiative. Besides utilizing sustainable practices and materials in the construction process, Metric is giving buyers the opportunity to buy or lease photovoltaic panels for their units, enabling them to attain zero-net energy goals. “I thank Metric for its commitment to this project, and to affordable, sustainable housing,” Jones said in the press release that adds the platform “will keep Devens green, even during the cold New England months.”

Another homegrown developer—Carter Scott from Tranformations of Townsend—is erecting eight single-family homes adjacent to the 1.6-acre Metric site. The builders will separately document energy consumption in the homes they deliver for a year after occupancy to demonstrate the effectiveness of the construction methods.

In his remarks, Caraboolad relays his firm is “honored” to have been selected by MassDevelopment for the landmark undertaking. “The combined efforts and collaboration involved in moving this project forward have been extraordinary, and Metric looks forward to continuing its commitment to promote sustainable construction practices,” offers Caraboolad.

Besides promoting green practices, MassDevelopment works with businesses, non-profits, financial institutions and communities on a mission to stimulate economic growth across the Bay State. During FY 2011 alone, the agency financed or managed more than 300 projects generating an estimated $3.8 billion investment in the Massachusetts economy. Those projects are predicted to create more than 10,000 jobs and build or rehabilitate more than 1,000 residential units.