2014 Donald E. Hunter Excellence in Economic Development Planning Award

The Economic Development Division of APA is pleased to announce the winners of the 2014 Donald E. Hunter Excellence in Economic Development Planning Award:

  AWARD WINNER: Uptown Columbus, Georgia for "Chattahoochee River Whitewater Park"
This 2.5-mile urban whitewater park, 10-plus years in the making, is the result of a public/private partnership between local communities, state, and national agencies. Whitewater Columbus opened May 2013 and was recently named one of USA Today’s "Top 12 Greatest Man-made Adventures on the Planet." One year later, more than 16,000 rafters have experienced the thrill of its rapids. When the park reaches its full potential, an economic impact study projects a $44 million economic impact.

HONORABLE MENTION: Royal Commission at Yanbu, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, for "Yanbu Economic Vision 2030"
The world’s third largest oil refining hub, the Royal Commission at Yanbu is a significant contributor to economic growth in Saudi Arabia, and a leading choice for investors in petrochemical and energy-intensive industries. Building on the city’s success, the “Yanbu Economic Vision 2030” seeks to identify future areas of opportunity and support diversification of the local and regional economy. The plan introduces 12 new initiatives and 43 projects, and is expected to enhance job growth by 31% over the next 15 years..

Please READ MORE about these award-winning projects on our website.

The Excellence in Economic Development Planning Award was presented at the Economic Development Division’s annual meeting and reception during the 2014 American Planning Association National Conference, held recently in Atlanta.

FREE Webinar: "Retail, Race and Regional Economic Development in Chicago’s Southern Suburbs"

Friday, June 6th 1:00 pm (Eastern)

Is race a driver or mitigating factor in retail location decisions?  The webinar will summarize findings of a two year Retail Investment Study conducted in the south suburbs of Chicago (Olympia Fields, Matteson, Park Forest, and Richton Park) that examined reasons, including race, for the lack of Class A retail and restaurant establishments in local communities.  The session will summarize the extensive research effort undertaken to evaluate the complex retail decision making process, and focus on solutions to address existing challenges and work cooperatively to provide the shopping and dining opportunities desired by residents.

Register HERE! CM credits pending.