WEST DES MOINES, IOWA (November 7, 2024) — The nomination deadline for the Best Development Awards, coordinated by 1000 Friends of Iowa, is November 15, 2024.
The awards program, in its 23rd year, recognizes Iowa’s thoughtfully-considered projects and programs that connect building, land, natural resources, development, positive community impact, and quality of life as well as the organizations and individuals responsible for those projects and programs. With a mission focused on responsible land-use, 1000 Friends of Iowa promotes smart planning principles that help achieve thriving communities. There is a $25 fee to submit a nomination, and anyone can nominate (or self-nominate).
Winners will be chosen by independent jurors in December, and an awards ceremony is slated to occur over the lunch hour on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, for the following categories:
- New Civic
- Renovated Civic
- New Commercial
- Renovated Commercial
- Innovative Leadership
- Mixed Use
- Renewable Energy
- New Residential
- Renovated Residential
- Stormwater Management
- Transportation/Complete Streets
- Placemaking/Greenspace
Announced in the Capitol Rotunda during the state’s legislative session, the awards ceremony is a unique opportunity to let lawmakers know the positive impact that sustainable practices have on Iowa’s communities. Nomination forms need to be submitted online at 1000friendsofiowa.org/our-programs/best-development-awards/.
1000 Friends of Iowa, founded in 1998, is a statewide non-profit organization focused on land use education. Its mission is to unite Iowans in efforts to protect farmland and natural areas, revitalize neighborhoods, towns and cities, and improve quality of life for future generations. Additional details about past winners and 1000 Friends of Iowa’s smart growth priorities can be found at 1000FriendsofIowa.org.
