On September 12, Habitat for Humanity of Orange County hosted a tour of the Odie Street Community in Hillsborough, showcasing its innovative green infrastructure project. This event attracted over 55 attendees, including representatives from the Town of Hillsborough, the City of Raleigh, other Triangle-area Habitat for Humanity affiliates, as well as the engineers and contractors who helped bring this forward-thinking initiative to life.

The Odie Street neighborhood is a significant milestone for Habitat’s commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The primary focus of the project includes the implementation of bioswales—landscaping features designed to capture and filter stormwater runoff—alongside comprehensive stream restoration efforts. These measures not only reduce environmental impact but also contribute to the health of the local ecosystem, preventing soil erosion and mitigating flooding risks in the area.

In addition to the bioswales, Odie Street is home to several other green initiatives that reflect Habitat’s dedication to energy efficiency and affordable housing. Most of the homes in the community are equipped with solar panels, and the entire development is SystemVision-certified, with a Silver Level ranking under the National Green Building Standards (NGBS). These certifications ensure that the homes meet rigorous criteria for energy efficiency, resource conservation, and indoor air quality.

The Odie Street green infrastructure project is part of Habitat’s larger goal to build sustainable, energy-efficient homes that benefit not only the families who live in them but the surrounding community as well. By combining affordable housing with cutting-edge green technology, Habitat for Humanity continues to be a leader in innovative, eco-friendly housing solutions.