Columbia Credit Union Branch Program

Opened in April 2008, the Washougal branch of Columbia Credit Union is the first of several planned branches in Clark County, and will be used as a prototype for sustainable design for CCU's future branches. Having members in approximately 25% of Clark County’s households, the main objectives for the design were to create a healthy environment for the credit union’s clients and a productive atmosphere for employees.

To that end, sustainable design features include:

• A pyramid-shaped skylight allowing light to enter from all directions, creating daylight for members and employees and reducing electricity demand and costs
• A high-efficiency HVAC system and natural ventilation
• Rainwater harvesting to supply irrigation and other non-potable water needs
• Porous concrete helping reduce rainwater runoff
• Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified lumber used throughout
• Native plants and local materials
• Compact fluorescent lighting and automatic dimmers
• 100% renewable energy
• Low VOC paint, flooring and finishes