The American Planning Association (APA) today announced something anyone in the area who has spent any time on West Magnolia Avenue already knows.
The APA named West Magnolia Avenue as one of the country’s 15 Great Places for 2018 through the organization’s national flagship program, Great Places in America. West Magnolia was named one of America’s Great Streets.
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.
“We’re very excited and honored by the APA’s designation of Magnolia Avenue,” said Mike Brennan, president of Near Southside Inc., the nonprofit organization that works for the revitalization of the Near Southside. “The Great Places in America program highlights the work of not just city planners, but entire communities, in creating streets and public spaces that bring people together and support economic growth. Magnolia Avenue’s award is the direct result of 30 years of wonderful people working together to create something special, and this is an acknowledgement that all that investment has paid off. “
“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 are defined by many characteristics including architectural features, accessibility, functionality, and community involvement, according to the Washington, D.C.- and Chicago-based organization. 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. Nominate a 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.
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
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
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, according to the organization. www.planning.org.