Excellence in Economic Development Planning Award

2008
This past years' award went to Prince George's County, Maryland for the re-use of obsolete strip shopping centers as medical facilities.

2007
The Economic Development Planning Award for 2007 was awarded to Whitnall-Summit Co. and the City of West Allis who formed an economic development partnership that has catalyzed redevelopment and brought creative financing to the revitalization of the former Allis-Chalmers Mfg. Co. complex. The 166-acre former industrial user, Allis-Chalmers Mfg. Co., went bankrupt in 1987 at the cost thousands of jobs. From 1979 to 1989, West Allis lost 8,500 manufacturing jobs and experienced a decline of 10,000 residents, while the average wage within the City dropped 25 percent. In the last three years, the site has dramatically increased in value, due to the collaboration between Whitnall-Summit Co., and the City of West Allis.

2006 Recipient
The Economic Development Planning Award for 2006 went to Harrison County, Mississippi. In response to Hurricane Katrina, the Ohio State University Department of City and Regional Planning helped the county conduct a regional growth and recovery planning process. Ohio State University utilized a citizen-based approach to develop rebuilding and economic development plans.

A thorough planning process was used to develop a comprehensive plan for Saucier, a rural community located 20 miles inland. The plan evaluated and suggested improvements to aid the citizens of Saucier in achieving their goals for the future of their community. The process engaged local economic developers, planners, citizens, elected officials, and businesses. Plan goals and objectives recognized the needs of the community and offered a variety of solutions. The plan analysis included all the major economic development factors including roadway development, rail, labor force, and land availability. The plan also addressed housing, rural character, and the development of a village center.

2005 Recipient
The 2005 Excellence in Economic Development Planning Award was presented to the Alexandria Economic Development Partnership for their US Patent and Trademark office development. The USPTO project met the criteria for its quality, originality and comprehensiveness of design, as well as its implementation and contribution to the community. The project has transformed a nearly vacant former rail yard into the world's intellectual property gateway and a thriving center for commerce, retail and residential opportunities.