Download the 2004 National Award for Smart Growth Achievement Booklet (PDF). Photo of Skaneateles, NY, courtesy of Sabra Richards.
Primary tasks
Through the National Award for Smart Growth Achievement, EPA recognizes and supports communities that use innovative policies and strategies to strengthen their economies, provide housing and transportation choices, develop in ways that bring benefits to a wide range of residents, and protect the environment.
The 2004 National Award for Smart Growth Achievement Booklet includes:
- A message from the EPA Administrator
- How smart growth protects the environment
- About the award
- Descriptions and photographs of each award winner
- Continuing achievements of past award winners
The winners are:
- Overall Excellence in Smart Growth
The Planning Ordinance aims to maintain Davidson's identity as a small town. Photo courtesy of award winner.
Town of Davidson
Town of Davidson Planning Department, Davidson, North Carolina
A small community, Davidson is setting the standard for creating healthy and vibrant neighborhoods in a historic setting. The town is revitalizing its existing buildings, and its new neighborhoods incorporate a variety of lot sizes and housing types, including affordable housing, and neighborhood parks within a five-minute walk.
For an update on this project, see the 2008 National Award for Smart Growth Achievement booklet.
- Built Projects
Live/work units are new to Greensboro and enhance the existing businesses in the neighborhood. Photo courtesy of award winner.
Southside Neighborhood
City of Greensboro, Department of Housing and Community Development, Greensboro, North Carolina
The redevelopment of the Southside neighborhood, just one-and-a-half blocks from Greensboro's historic main street, transformed a blighted area into a thriving, attractive district. The community capitalized on a rich stock of historic buildings and public spaces to restore this downtown neighborhood.
For an update on this project, see the 2009 National Award for Smart Growth Achievement booklet.
- Policies and Regulations
Storage spaces become homes thanks to the ADU program. Photo courtesy of award winner.
Accessory Dwelling Unit Program
City of Santa Cruz, Department of Housing and Community Development, Santa Cruz, California
Santa Cruz is increasing and diversifying housing choices by making accessory units easier to build. This program gives homeowners an additional source of income and creates more affordable housing.
For an update on this project, see the 2005 National Award for Smart Growth Achievement booklet.
- Community Outreach and Education
Small group exercises at a regional workshop gave participants a more active role. Photo courtesy of Leon Fredette/Fredette Photography.
Sacramento Region Blueprint: Transportation/Land Use Study
Sacramento Area Council of Governments, Sacramento Region, California
The Blueprint Project brought together more than 5,000 citizens to help create and refine regional planning scenarios. The extensive public outreach was successful due in part to the collaboration of 30 agencies and private businesses.
For an update on this project, see the 2008 National Award for Smart Growth Achievement booklet.
- Small Communities
The design for Tsigo Bugeh Village is inspired by traditional pueblos. The buildings are clustered around two plazas, which include cultural amenities such as "hornos," or traditional ovens. Photo courtesy of award winner.
San Juan Pueblo Master Plan
San Juan Pueblo Office of the Governor, San Juan Pueblo, New Mexico
The San Juan Pueblo found a way to honor their heritage and provide housing for their people. The tribe implemented a new urbanist Master Land Use Plan—the first of its kind for a Native American community. In 2003, a 40-unit, mixed-income, rental housing project was completed, exhibiting a culturally appropriate, affordable design.
For an update on this project, see the 2005 National Award for Smart Growth Achievement booklet.