Aug. 4, 2010
Vol. 40, No. 266

For further information contact Greg Kindig, Delaware State Parks, 302-739-9212; or Beth Shockley, Public Affairs, 302-739-9902.

Blue Ball Barn reflects Delaware State Parks’ commitment to the environment

The Blue Ball Barn at Alapocas Run State Park has received a Gold LEED certification for its design and construction. It joins the Killens Pond State Park Nature Center as buildings within the Delaware State Parks system that were designed and constructed following  Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) principles and both are now registered with the U.S. Green Building Council as environmentally-friendly structures. 

Some of its sustainable aspects include the fact that it is located near public transportation, reducing the need for parking and creating more green space. In addition, many of the materials used in construction, including the concrete, steel, metal siding, roofing and more, contain high levels of recycled content. The building also includes water fixture sensors and waterless urinals, innovative bioswales created with native plants to filter on-site water, reduce contaminants and create habitat areas, and rainwater collection that is filtered and used to flush toilets and to water plants.

The centerpiece of Alapocas Run State Park, the Blue Ball Barn is managed by the Delaware Division of Parks and Recreation and is home to the Delaware Folk Art Collection and historical exhibits. Blue Ball Barn is also one of Delaware State Parks’ special event venues, available for rental for meetings and special gatherings.

 The barn, built in 1914 by Alfred I. duPont, is named after the Blue Ball Tavern, an inn and meeting house that was once located near the property. It is an example of the preservation and adaptive reuse of an historic structure.

 More information is available by calling 302-577-1164 or visiting www.destateparks.com.

 Alapocas Run State Park is located 1914 West Park Drive in Wilmington.