1,000 Friends of Iowa launched the “Best Development Awards” program in 2001 and since then over 150 projects have been recognized for their promotion of smart growth and sustainability. Categories include New Civic, Renovated Civic, New Commercial, Renovated Commercial, Innovative Leadership, Mixed Use, Renewable Energy, New Residential, Renovated Residential, Stormwater Management, Transportation/Complete Streets, and Placemaking/Greenspace. The awards recognize the efforts of businesses, developers, cities, organizations, and individuals.
According to the 1000 Friends of Iowa website, “the winners of the Best Development Awards are models of responsible development practices that provide benefits to the community, the environment, and the quality of life for future generations. The program is designed to bring attention to cities, companies, non-profit organizations and individuals who demonstrate how responsible development and planning practices provide benefits to the community, the environment and the quality of future generations. The very best projects show collaboration between public and private sectors to build, re-purpose or preserve our infrastructure. These buildings and projects provide sustainability to our state by considering site placement, design, water efficiency, energy management, the materials and resources used, the indoor environmental quality, and public use and benefit.”
Do you have a project in mind? Nominations are open and will close November 17th, 2023. Cover Photo: 2023 Renewable Energy Winner – Perry Solar Project. Click here to view the full list of 2023 winners!
