Governor signs green-building standards law

New major public projects and building renovations in Rhode Island, including schools, must be designed and constructed in conformance with high-performance green-building standards, according to legislation signed by Governor Carcieri.

The law applies to new construction of more than 5,000 square feet and renovation of spaces greater than 10,000 square feet if such projects receive funding from the state. The law takes effect immediately but will apply only to buildings entering the design phase after Jan. 1. Under the law, building design must conform to the internationally recognized United States Green Building Council Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design rating system or an equivalent high-performance green-building standard, including the Northeast Collaborative for High-Performance Schools Protocol.

“We are no longer in an era when environmentally friendly design is a luxury. Not only are green building materials and systems more affordable and available than they used to be, but environmentally responsible design pays off in lower costs for energy, water and more over the life of a building,” said Sen. Louis DiPalma, D-Middletown, the bill’s sponsor.

Journal staff

Twin River on verge of around-the-clock operation

Starting Thursday, the Twin River slot parlor in Lincoln will begin operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Earlier this month, the Rhode Island Lottery director gave the financially troubled gambling venue permission to extend its operating hours. The current hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 3 a.m. Monday through Thursday, and around-the-clock on weekends and holidays.

Following along with always-available gambling, some Twin River food vendors will extend their operating hours, including at least three that go 24/7 — Dunkin’ Donuts, Starbucks and Dessert Express. Johnny Rockets will open until 2 a.m. Saturdays and until 11 p.m. on Sundays. Subway will open until 11 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays and until 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

Alcohol will be served every day until 1 a.m.

Paul Grimaldi