Download the 2013 National Award for Smart Growth Achievement Booklet (PDF). Photo of Atlanta, Georgia, courtesy of Christopher T. Martin.
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 2013 National Award for Smart Growth Achievement Booklet includes:
- A message from the EPA Administrator
- About the award
- How smart growth protects the environment
- Descriptions and photographs of each award winner
The winners are:
- Overall Excellence
Historic Fourth Ward Park and the Atlanta BeltLine have helped to spark over $775 million in private development, including the mixed-use redevelopment of the long-abandoned Sears Warehouse Building. Photo courtesy of Christopher T. Martin.
Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail and Historic Fourth Ward Park
Atlanta, Georgia
The redevelopment of a formerly contaminated rail corridor into a multi-use trail and connected park system is sparking economic development, community engagement, and new affordable housing options in 45 city neighborhoods.
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- Corridor or Neighborhood Revitalization
Original elements of the old mill buildings, such as open staircases, south-facing windows, and thick, insulating exterior walls, showcase the district's character while creating energy-efficient spaces. Photo courtesy of EPA.
Historic Millwork District and Washington Neighborhood
Dubuque, Iowa
The conversion of a mostly vacant former mill district into a lively, mixed-use neighborhood reconnected the area to downtown and the adjacent residential neighborhood.
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- Policies, Programs, and Plans
Tens of thousands of Chicago-area residents participated in the development of the GO TO 2040 plan through in-person community meetings and interactive online tools. Photo courtesy of the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning
GO TO 2040
Metropolitan Chicago, Illinois
This seven-county regional plan for growth and economic development engages a wide variety of partners and links local planning efforts to a broad regional vision through tools and technical assistance.
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The LEAP process helped the city of Detroit connect directly with residents to incorporate their ideas into the broader, citywide plan. Photo courtesy of Jefferson East, Inc.
- Policies, Programs, and Plans: Honorable Mention
Lower Eastside Action Plan
Detroit, Michigan
This grassroots effort formed a plan for revitalization that engaged residents in creating a vision for a low-income, high-vacancy neighborhood and influenced citywide planning.
- Built Projects
La Valentina residents have easy access to light rail, which can take them to jobs and services downtown in less than 10 minutes. Photo courtesy of Bruce Damonte
La Valentina
Sacramento, California
An energy-efficient, mixed-income, mixed-use apartment building on a former brownfield site next to a light-rail station is transforming an industrial neighborhood and giving residents transportation options.
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Via Verde's rooftops serve residents by providing fresh produce in community gardens, places to socialize in public spaces, and energy through solar panels. Photo courtesy of David Sundberg/Esto
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Built Projects: Honorable Mention
Via Verde
The Bronx, New YorkThis affordable, transit-oriented, highly energy-efficient building features design that emphasizes health and wellness for residents.
- Plazas, Parks, and Public Places
Playground equipment was built using natural materials that protect the area from flooding while providing fun features for kids to explore. Photo courtesy of EPA
Charles City Riverfront Park
Charles City, Iowa
This multi-facility park built on a flood plain connects to downtown and adjacent low-income housing, brings economic benefits, and has become the recreational heart of the city.
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