1000 Friends of Iowa is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2010 Best Development Awards! The winners of our Best Development Awards are models of how responsible development practices provide benefits to the community, the environment, and quality of life for future generations. By category, the winners are:

New Residential: The Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity, Des Moines
The Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity was selected to receive the award for Best New Residential due to their demonstration of increased energy efficiency and use of environmentally sustainable building products in the construction of affordable homes, one of which achieved a LEED Silver certification. In addition to showing it is possible to build both affordably and sustainably, they strive to build attractive homes that complement the character of the surrounding neighborhood.

Renovated Commercial/Civic: The Ladora Bank Bistro in Ladora and The Hotel Julien in Dubuque
The Ladora Bank Bistro was selected to receive the award for Best Renovated Commercial/Civic in a small community because the project is an excellent example of contributing to small town revitalization, historic re-use, and sustainable community development.  

The Hotel Julien Dubuquw was selected to receive the award for Best Renovated and Commercial/Civic in a large community because the beauty and authenticity of this historic rehabilitation project showcases how such rehabilitation can revitalize and sustain a downtown area.

Renovated Residential: UniverCity Neighborhood Partnership’s Affordable Homeownership Program, Iowa City

The UniverCity Neighborhood Partnership’s Affordable Homeownership Program was selected to receive the award for Best Renovated Residential because the project is innovative and meets almost all of the smart growth criteria. The project is an excellent example of revitalizing existing neighborhoods and providing affordable homeownership in locations close to employment.

Mixed Use: The Hotel Blackhawk, Davenport
The Hotel Blackhawk redevelopment was selected to receive the award for Best Mixed Use due to their success at transforming a National Historic Landmark into a vibrant mixed-use facility that has enhanced the quality of life in Davenport.

Leadership: City of Dubuque, Dubuque and Lakes Community Land Trust, Spirit Lake
The City of Dubuque was selected to receive the award for Leadership in a large community because their recently adopted Unified Development Code promotes best practices in sustainable development and will serve as a model for other cities in Iowa.

The Lakes Community Land Trust was selected to receive the award for Leadership in a small community because of the broad spectrum of programs and projects it promotes in the community in its effort to achieve social equality, affordable housing, local food production and revitalization of existing towns and neighborhoods.

Please join us in congratulating this year’s recipients!