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EPA National Award for Smart Growth Achievement Now Taking Applications

Submitted by GIA News on February 23, 2011

(2-23-2011) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has announced that the application period for the 10th annual National Award for Smart Growth Achievement is now open . Through this award, EPA recognizes and supports communities that have successfully used smart growth principles to improve communities environmentally, socially, and economically. Open to public- and private-sector entities, winners will be recognized at a ceremony in Washington, DC, in December 2011.

View the application and complete entry guidelines.

Overview of the Awards:

  • Entry deadline is April 6, 2011.
  • Applicants may be public- or private-sector entities, but all applications must include a public-sector partner. Applications for public-nonprofit activities are welcome but must be submitted by the public-sector participant.
  • Awards will be given for the following four categories:
    1. Programs, Policies, and Regulations: This category recognizes regulatory and policy initiatives that support the principles of smart growth. EPA is particularly interested in actions that remove barriers to or provide incentives for smart growth.
    2. Smart Growth and Green Building: This category recognizes development that combines smart growth and green building approaches as building design and materials are integrated with land use and location efficiency. Projects may be single or multiple buildings.
    3. Civic Places: This category recognizes projects in the public realm that improve a community's sense of place while adding environmental and economic benefits. EPA is particularly interested in projects that create well-designed and vibrant public spaces.
    4. Rural Smart Growth: This category recognizes communities that preserve and encourage rural economies and character. EPA is interested in thriving rural areas that have used smart growth approaches to encourage economic development and job creation, improve transportation choices and housing options, and support the economic viability of working lands.
  • An “Overall Excellence" winner will be chosen from the four categories by the review panels.

For additional information, please visit www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/awards.htm#2011app or contact Ted Cochin (cochin.ted@epa.gov), (202) 566-2181.