Sherman Avenue Named One of 15 Great Places in America by the American Planning Association

Washington, DC

As part of National Community Planning Month, APA’s Great Places in America program recognizes streets, neighborhoods, and public spaces in the United States demonstrating exceptional character, quality, and planning—attributes that enrich communities, facilitate economic growth, and inspire others around the country. The Great Neighborhoods, Great Streets, and Great Public Spaces of 2016 are places that are unique and exemplary in their amenities and infrastructure, cultural identity, and use of sustainable and innovative practices.

“This year’s designees highlight the power of a single well planned street to stimulate economic activity and energize an entire community,” said Carol Rhea, FAICP, president of APA. “We applaud those who have worked hard through careful planning, public engagement, and innovation to create better places to live, work, play, and visit—one street at a time.”

Coeur d’Alene Mayor Steve Widmyer said this recognition is a true honor for the community.

“This award reflects the work and vision of community leaders over the past two decades to make Sherman Avenue what it is today,” Mayor Widmyer said. “We’re proud of the efforts of the City, residents and downtown business partners to create a downtown based on a collaborative vision that fits our community, encourages economic development, and attracts visitors.”

Just because Sherman Avenue is in a small town environment does not mean it is sedate! Sherman Avenue is the main vein of connectivity through the Idahoan resort town of Coeur d’Alene, so the street is always bustling with commerce and festivities that reflect the unique local flair. In addition to Sherman Avenue, APA also recognized the following streets this year:

• Main Street -Ketchum, Idaho
• South 24th Street -Albuquerque, New Mexico
• Arthur Avenue -Bronx, New York
• Main Street - Davidson, North Carolina

Since launching the Great Places in America program in 2007, APA has recognized 260 neighborhoods, streets, and public spaces around the country. Places are selected annually and represent the gold standard in terms of having a true sense of place, cultural and historical interest, community involvement, and a vision for the future.

For the third year, members of the public can suggest their favorite public space, neighborhood, or street to earn a “People’s Choice” designation. During the first half of October, individuals can offer suggestions via APA’s social media channels using the hashtag #APAgreatplaces. APA will select five finalists that the public can vote on via APA’s website. The “People’s Choice” winner is announced in early November 2016.

For more information about these streets, as well as APA’s Great Neighborhoods and Public Spaces for 2016 and previous years, visit www.planning.org/greatplaces.

For more information about National Community Planning Month, visit www.planning.org/ncpm.

The American Planning Association is an independent, not- for-profit educational organization that provides leadership in the development of vital communities. APA and its professional institute, the American Institute of Certified Planners, are dedicated to advancing the art, science and profession of good planning -- physical, economic and social -- so as to create communities that offer better choices for where and how people work and live. Members of APA help create communities of lasting value and encourage civic leaders, business interests and citizens to play a meaningful role in creating communities that enrich people's lives. APA has offices in Washington, D.C., and Chicago. For more information, visit www.planning.org.