The Pennsylvania Chapter of the American Planning Association (APA PA) will be recognizing “Great Public Spaces” and “Great Neighborhoods” in 2020. Overall, Great Places are unique, memorable places that display a wealth of best practices in community planning, serve as a community focal point, and strengthen the local economy. Everyone should be proud of the “great” planning that is occurring in their community and want it recognized as a model for other communities.
Do you know a public space or neighborhood that embodies planning excellence and promotes a sense of community? Do you think it merits designation as a Pennsylvania Great Place? If so, PLEASE NOMINATE IT! The deadline for Nominations is August 31, 2020.
For inspiration and more information, including guidelines, category criteria, the nomination form, and archives of previously designated Great Places, please visit the APA PA website. All Great Public Spaces and Great Neighborhood nominations must be submitted online.
What Makes a Great Place?
Great Places offer better choices for where and how people live, work, and play. They are enjoyable, safe, sustainable, and desirable. They build healthy and resilient communities. Great Places also give their communities an economic boost by helping to attract and retain residents and businesses, as well as attract visitors. Many criteria, including functionality, accessibility, connectivity, community involvement, economic opportunities, forward thinking planning, partnerships, and others, define Pennsylvania’s Great Places.
APA PA will recognize successfully designated Great Public Spaces and Great Neighborhoods through an array of activities, such as:
- News and social media releases statewide and locally about the designations
- Recognition on the APA PA website
- Coordinated attendance of APA PA representatives at local designation ceremonies in communities choosing to hold such events, if permissible under COVID 19 restrictions.
- Presentation of a Great Places Certificate and Window Clings
- Recognition at the APA PA Annual Conference