Five communities were recognized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency with 2011 National Awards for Smart Growth Achievement.
Old North St. Louis Revitalization Initiative in St. Louis received the Overall Excellence in Smart Growth award through efforts to rebuild the historic neighborhood. Silver Gardens Apartments in Albuquerque, New Mexico, was awarded the Smart Growth and Green Building award for being a LEED Platinum-certified building with innovative green designs close to transportation options.
The Programs, Policies and Regulations award went to Plan El Paso 2010 in El Paso, Texas, for the group’s development plan to create new transportation options; Maroney Commons in Howard, South Dakota, received the Rural Smart Growth award for adding a green building downtown that houses training for jobs; and Uptown Normal Roundabout in Normal, Illinois, received the Civic Places award after the roundabout evolved to a gathering place that funnels business to stores.
With the awards, the EPA recognizes unique means of development and protecting the environment. For more on the 2011 winners, visit the EPA’s website.
