Creating Healthier Places

Vitus Group

2016 Progress Report

Year Committed: 2015

Length of Commitment: 5 years

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Committed to prioritize health and incorporate a selection of active design strategies into at least 80 percent of its affordable housing development projects over the next three years.

Verified Results

Implementation Date
January 2018
Reporting Date
February 2017

Commitment Element
At least 80 percent of all affordable housing projects meet or exceed the criteria in the active design framework.
Progress To Date

In year two of its five year commitment, Vitus Group completed one affordable housing development, Evergreen Terrace, which meets the criteria in the active design framework.
Implementation Date
January 2018
Reporting Date
February 2017

Commitment Element
The floor plan includes outdoor space for physical activity that is accessible by all building occupants, is visible from the interior of the building AND at least two (2) of the following: * Includes features that stimulate play in children, such as painted ground markings and/or natural terrain elements. * Includes exercise equipment that is suitable for both adults and children. Equipment for adults and children should be co-located. * Is designed with a variety of climate environments to facilitate activity in different seasons and weather conditions. * Drinking fountains or water refilling stations are provided.
Progress To Date

Two outdoor recreation spaces for physical activity are provided. The outdoor spaces include exercise equipment for children and adults along with natural terrain elements to stimulate children's play. A central resident gardening area is also provided. All areas are visible and accessible to all occupants.
Implementation Date
January 2018
Reporting Date
February 2017

Commitment Element
Secure long-term bicycle storage is available for residents. Bicycle storage areas must be locked or adequately secured from theft, easily accessible to occupants and include informational signage on using the storage facilities. A minimum of one bicycle storage space for every two residential units is required. Storage must be: * Located on the ground floor and visible from the main path of travel; or * Located outdoors and sheltered to provide protection from the elements; or * Located on the first level of a parking garage, include physical barriers to minimize interactions between bicycles and automobiles and offer access to an entrance/exit ramp.
Progress To Date

Secure long-term bicycle storage is provided for residents within their units. Since ground floor storage is not possible in this site, placing optional bicycle racks within units is provided. The proposed racks accommodate 2 bicycles per unit and are secure from theft and the elements.
Implementation Date
January 2018
Reporting Date
February 2017

Commitment Element
An informational board or kiosk is provided near the main building entrance(s) that delineates transit options within the community (i.e. bus stops, train stations, walking routes) and the time and distance to each transit option.
Progress To Date

A plan to install indoor and outdoor informational board and kiosk is provided. Those will delineate public transit options and location for nearby community garden.
Implementation Date
January 2018
Reporting Date
February 2017

Commitment Element
Lighting is provided along building exterior and/or exterior walking routes to the building entrance.
Progress To Date

A lighting plan and exterior images were provided showing that areas along the building exterior and exterior walking routes of the building entrance are well lit.
Implementation Date
January 2018
Reporting Date
February 2017

Commitment Element
Where applicable, ensure that all amenities and facilities on the site are conveniently connected by pedestrian infrastructure.
Progress To Date

Pedestrian infrastructure is provided throughout the site, connecting various outdoor recreation spaces.
Implementation Date
January 2018
Reporting Date
February 2017

Commitment Element
Where applicable and subject to local zoning requirements, provide sidewalks that are wide enough to comfortably accommodate pedestrians, including those with disabilities.
Progress To Date

Sidewalks and paths are provided and comfortably accommodate pedestrians including those with disabilities. Ramps are provided where needed.
Implementation Date
January 2018
Reporting Date
February 2017

Commitment Element
Gardening opportunities, including raised beds and/or a rooftop farm are provided on site and are open and accessible to all residents.
Progress To Date

Gardening opportunities in the form of raised beds are provided and are accessible to all residents.
Implementation Date
January 2018
Reporting Date
February 2017

Commitment Element
Short-term bicycle parking close to each building entrance is provided and is available for public use.
Progress To Date

Two short-term bicycle parking structures are provided in central and convenient locations for public use.

Partner Statement

“Vitus’ mission is to create positive social impact - one community, one family, and one life at a time. In particular, we provide our residents with options to make healthy choices. Vitus’ commitment to Active Design Verified (ADV) supports our integrated approach to creating wellness-centered communities.

"To date, Vitus has preserved the affordability of eight multifamily properties (1,762 apartments) that correspond to our ADV commitment. These communities serve approximately 3,200 residents and renovation is either underway or substantially complete. Properties renovated with Active Design principles include such amenities as community gardens, indoor and outdoor recreation spaces, enhanced stairwells, bicycle storage, drinking fountains, and improved lighting and pedestrian paths. We also provide on-site wellness programs that are free of charge to the residents, ranging from fresh produce distribution programs to nutrition education to exercise classes.

"Vitus looks beyond Active Design for opportunities to offer healthy choices to our residents. We collaborate with other organizations that share this goal, and welcome opportunities to engage with other health advocates. We continue to encourage other members of the affordable housing industry to consider Active Design principles.”