Award Categories
Preservation and/or Adaptive Reuse. The reuse and/or preservation of existing downtown structures will be considered in this category. Structures need not be historic, but must be used for a new purpose or have undergone significant renovation in preparation for their use. While not an exhaustive list, building context, design, historic sensitivity and creativity will be evaluated.
Placemaking. This award honors an individual or organization that has completed a project which increased the visibility, stature and overall identity of downtown, resulting in greater visitation and economic activity. Examples include special events, design or other unique efforts that have attracted significant activity or attention.
Promotion and Marketing. Competitive entries should present a promotion or marketing campaign that directly or indirectly fosters a positive image of downtown. The campaign may focus on efforts that promote organizational development, audience generation, retail/business development, local history or culture. Print, electronic or multi-media campaigns are welcome.
Sustainable Development. Projects in this category will represent the best and most current methods of sustainable building and/or site development within the downtown context. Innovation, response to local conditions, transit orientation and overall project performance will be highlighted in this category.
Urban Design. Pedestrian friendliness, architectural excellence and a host of urban design objectives are memorialized in the Downtown Urban Design Standards. Nominees in this category will exemplify the objectives identified in the Downtown Urban Design Standards.