The American Planning Association (APA) – Iowa Chapter recently announced the selection of La Porte City, Iowa, for receipt of the 2018 Iowa Planning Award for their Downtown Revitalization Plan, as designed by MSA.

The Plan was chosen to receive the Implementation Award, one of nineteen categories recognizing exemplary plans, projects and individuals within the planning profession.

Planning awards were decided based on an independent review by a jury of professional planners from the Wisconsin Chapter of the APA, with 11 nominees selected to receive awards in categories ranging from Environmental Planning to Implementation, Transportation, Urban Design and Public Outreach. Award winners were recognized at a special luncheon during the annual APA-Iowa Conference, held October 17-19 in Council Bluffs, Iowa.

The La Porte City Downtown Revitalization Plan was honored for addressing the City’s needs to reestablish a downtown identity, create new standards for expansion, honor the historical and cultural roots of the area, attract diverse new businesses and develop a long-term strategy for growth.

The plan analyzed the City’s current urban conditions, including property inventory, existing land use, road hierarchy, parking occupancy and retail market analysis. The resulting Downtown Revitalization Plan included comprehensive streetscape enhancements, building preservation and site design standards, a redevelopment opportunities map, future land use map and suggested zoning changes map. The plan also incorporated specific implementation strategies and offered a series of funding resources to ensure the successful revitalization of downtown La Porte City.

“MSA is proud to have been a part of this exciting project,” commented Shawn O’Shea, AICP, project manager and client service manager for the winning entry. “As the City continues to implement the Downtown Revitalization Plan, it’s exciting to watch roots of the downtown district spring back to life, opening up new opportunities for business and recreation. We commend La Porte City for their efforts and congratulate them on receiving this notable award.”

Contact Shawn O’Shea for more information about the project and how MSA helps with a variety of community planning initiatives.