Adding to its array of green-friendly initiatives, the West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority (DDA) has introduced a Roof Weatherization Grant Program to prompt more “greening” of Downtown’s rooftops.  Downtown business or property owners are eligible for up to $5,000 to aid in the rooftop weatherization process.

Most roofs in South Florida are made with a highly absorbent material that heats up the rooftop and building, thus creating an increased need for A/C, especially during Florida’s steamy summers! The rooftop weatherization process includes an application of a specialized sealant that blocks the sun’s heat from absorbing, allowing the rooftop surface area and building to remain cool. In addition to providing benefits to the environment such as reducing our carbon footprint, the weatherization process can also greatly reduce energy costs. In order to quantify the energy savings of this program, the DDA, in partnership with Florida Power & Light (FPL), will conduct before and after energy audits of each weatherized building.

“The rooftop weatherization grant program is an example of the many ways Downtown West Palm Beach is becoming a leader in environmentally friendly initiatives,” said Bruce Lewis, chair of the DDA Board of Directors.

Businesses seeking to apply for the rooftop grant must be located within the Downtown area bounded by the east by Flagler Drive, north by Banyan Boulevard, west by Tamarind Avenue and south by Datura Street, including properties adjacent to these streets on either side.  All applications will be reviewed by the grant committee, who will then determine the need for improvement while considering the surrounding area to further the goal of sustainability.

The concept was originally brought to the DDA by Al Vasquez, chair of the City of West Palm Beach’s Green Task Force Committee and Penni Redford, the City’s sustainability manager.  For more information about the DDA, its grant programs and Downtown West Palm Beach, please call (561) 833-8873 or visit www.westpalmbeachdda.com.