When APA proclaimed a neighborhood in the smallest town in the smallest county in the smallest state a Great Neighborhood in America, U.S. Representative David Cicilline (D-RI) was there in Warren to mark the occasion.

He called the moment a “real tribute to local leadership who engaged in smart planning, working closely with the business community, government leaders, and good planning principles to create a vibrant and exciting downtown.”

But Downtown Warren hasn’t been the only APA Great Places in America designee to receive some positive attention from elected officials. In recent years, mayors and city managers, state legislators, and U.S. congressmen and women have joined together to celebrate the planning successes in communities large and small. These officials understand and celebrate the magic that happens when planners, community members, business leaders, and elected officials work together to create great streets, neighborhoods, and public spaces.

Roosevelt Row — Phoenix, Arizona
“Thanks to the vision and energy of so many, Roosevelt Row is a destination for people from all over—locals and tourists alike. It’s powered by artists and activists, locally-owned businesses and conscientious neighborhood leaders—all dedicated to preserving and celebrating this special corner of our big city.” – U.S. Representative Greg Stanton (D-AZ)

Ghent — Norfolk, Virginia
“The City of Norfolk is abundantly blessed to have vibrant and flourishing neighborhoods like Ghent. Ghent hosts a range of housing types, neighborhood and region-serving commercial establishments, public spaces, and an economically diverse and engagement community. It is truly a neighborhood of choice.” – Mayor Kenneth Cooper Alexander, City of Norfolk

The Village of Shelburne Falls — Shelburne and Buckland, Massachusetts
“I grew up four miles from Shelburne Falls, so I know what a special place it is. The village provides a unique sense of comfort and beauty nestled between mountains and straddling a river. APA’s designation of Shelburne Falls as a Great Place in America means more folks from outside our region will also experience the striking architecture from the past, like the Iron Bridge over the Deerfield River, the stunning glacial potholes, and a vibrant art, music, and restaurant scene.” – Massachusetts State Senator Adam G. Hinds (D-Pittsfield)

State Street — Bristol, Tennessee and Bristol, Virginia
“The Bristol community has many strengths, including our claim to the Birthplace of Country Music and our historic connection to NASCAR. Being recognized as one of APA’s Great Places in America means national promotion of our special community. State Street, which straddles two states and unites two vibrant communities, and the community pride and spirit of collaboration behind it is promoted through this designation. Now tourists and travelers have one more reason to discover Bristol’s strengths and enjoy time with us.” – Mayor Margaret Feierabend, Bristol, Tennessee

Is there a special street, neighborhood, or public space in a community you love? Suggest a Great Place by April 17 to be designated one of APA’s 2019 Great Places in America.