The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is pleased to announce that applications are now being accepted for the fifth annual National Award for Smart Growth Achievement. This competition is open to local or state governments and other public sector entities that have used the principles of smart growth to create better places.
Smart growth development serves the economy, the community, and the environment. Smart growth approaches to development create clear environmental benefits, including improved air and water quality, preservation of critical habitat and open space, and more cleanup and re-use of brownfield sites.
This year, applications will be accepted in five categories:
Built Projects
Policies and Regulations
Small Communities
Equitable Development
Overall Excellence in Smart Growth
Interested parties are encouraged to submit applications for smart growth activities that have shown significant activity between May 1, 2001, and May 1, 2006. Successful applicants will have incorporated the principles of smart growth to create places that respect community culture and the environment, foster economic development, and enhance quality of life and public health.
Applications are due on May 1, 2006. Up to five winners will be recognized at a ceremony in Washington, DC in November 2006.
For more details about the National Award for Smart Growth Achievement, including an application packet, visit: http://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/awards.htm.
(Source: U.S. EPA, February 27, 2006, www.epa.gov)
