WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The American Planning Association (APA) today announced the country's 15 Great Places for 2018 through the organization’s national flagship program, Great Places in America.
APA’s Great Places in America recognizes unique and exemplary streets, neighborhoods, and public spaces — three essential components of all communities. These authentic places have been shaped by forward thinking planning that showcases affordable transportation options, promotes community involvement and accessibility, and fosters economic opportunity.
“Our Great Places in America designees highlight the many facets that make up planning –from community engagement, quality of character and economic development,” said Cynthia Bowen, FAICP, president of APA. “These neighborhoods, streets and public spaces illustrate how a community coming together creates lasting value. It is an honor to recognize these outstanding places as a countdown to National Community Planning Month.”
APA Great Places showcases the best examples of where and how people work and live every day. They are defined by many characteristics including architectural features, accessibility, functionality and community involvement. The 290 Great Places designated to date are located in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.
Great Places in America is one of the ways APA starts the countdown to National Community Planning Month each October, a month-long event celebrating the accomplishments of the many residents, leaders, officials, and professionals who contribute to making great communities through the planning process.
Again this year, APA seeks further input from the public for the “People’s Choice” designee. Citizens can nominate their favorite Great Place by commenting on APA’s Facebook page, Twitter or Instagram feed using hashtag #APAgreatplaces from October 1 - 12. Online voting will take place the second half of October, with the “People’s Choice” Great Place designee being announced November 7.
The 2018 Great Places in America designees are listed below alphabetically and are not ranked.
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Great Neighborhoods
- Canalway Cultural District – Lowell, Massachusetts
- The Village of Shelburne Falls – Shelburne and Buckland, Massachusetts
- Guthrie Historic District – Guthrie, Oklahoma
- Historic Downtown Georgetown – Georgetown, Texas
- Ghent – Norfolk, Virginia
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Great Streets
- Cushman Street – Fairbanks, Alaska
- East Cross Street – Ypsilanti, Michigan
- Fayetteville Street – Raleigh, North Carolina
- West Magnolia Avenue – Fort Worth, Texas
- State Street – Bristol, Tennessee and Bristol, Virginia
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Great Public Spaces
- The Plaza – Orange, California
- Aspen Pedestrian Mall – Aspen, Colorado
- Mill River Park – Stamford, Connecticut
- Public Square – Cleveland, Ohio
- RiversEdge at Marcum Park – Hamilton, Ohio
To learn more about each of this year’s designees, visit: www.planning.org/greatplaces.
The American Planning Association is an independent, not-for-profit educational organization that provides vital leadership in creating great communities for all. APA and its professional institute, the American Institute of Certified Planners, are dedicated to advancing the profession of planning – physical, economic and social – to foster quality of life for all residents. The 40,000 members work in concert with community members, civic leaders and business interests to create communities that enrich people's lives. Through its philanthropic work, the APA Foundation helps to reduce economic and social barriers to planning. APA has offices in Washington, D.C., and Chicago. Learn more at www.planning.org.
