The Pennsylvania Chapter of the American Planning Association (APA-PA) is kicking off the “Great Places in Pennsylvania” Program. Great Places are unique, memorable places where people want to be – not only to visit, but to live and work every day. They serve as a model that other communities want to emulate – places of exemplary character, quality planning, identity, cultural interest and community involvement with a sustainable vision for the future.

For this first year, the nomination categories are Great Neighborhoods and Great Public Places. Specific criteria have been developed for each category. The Great Neighborhoods criteria relate to form & function, character & identity, and environmental & economic challenges. Criteria for Great Public Spaces relate to form & function, unique characteristics, and social interaction.

Do you know of a neighborhood or public place, whether it be rural, suburban or urban, that merit’s designation as a Pennsylvania Great Place? Nominate it! Nominations can be made by organizations, municipalities, and individuals, provided they are 18 years of age or older, except for members of the APA/PA Chapter Board of Directors. Nominations must be submitted online and will be accepted through June 13th. Designations will be announced in late November.

To learn more and nominate a special place as a Great Neighborhood or Great Public Space, visit the APA-PA Chapter website. Applications must be submitted online.