The John Ross. Part of a sustainable ecosystem called South Waterfront. South Waterfront, Oregon’s first green neighborhood and home to John Ross has easy access to the tram and streetcar. Bike and walking paths connect you to downtown and beyond. And plans are in the works to help restore the Willamette River. John Ross earned LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Certification by using innovative energy saving and water conservation techniques. From non-toxic paints, wheat-based products and sustainable building materials like wool carpeting inside to bioswales (landscaped areas that are part of the building) and an eco-roof that help cleanse storm water before it soaks into the ground or goes into the Willamette River, every decision is thoughtfully considered as it relates to sustainability and conservation. Overall the use of water and energy at John Ross is about 30% less than the conventionally designed buildings of similar size and use. That’s great news for you and the planet.