The American Planning Association named Historic Downtown Georgetown as one of five Great Neighborhoods on APA’s annual Great Places in America list Tuesday. APA’s Great Places in America program recognizes the 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 2018 are places that are unique and exemplary in their amenities and infrastructure, cultural identity, and use of sustainable and innovative practices, according to a news release. “The neighborhoods recognized this year demonstrate the importance of planning in creating vibrant, equitable, healthy neighborhoods,” APA president Cynthia Bowen said. “Through dedicated, community-wide engagement efforts, Georgetown’s historic downtown is a national example of how a community can work together to create access and opportunity for all.” In addition to Georgetown, APA recognizes the following Great Neighborhoods in 2018: ● Canalway Cultural District – Lowell, Massachusetts ● The Village of Shelburne Falls – Shelburne & Buckland, Massachusetts ● Guthrie Historic District – Guthrie, Oklahoma ● Ghent – Norfolk, Virginia “It is exciting to learn that Georgetown’s historic downtown district, centered around the Most Beautiful Town Square in Texas, has been named one of the Great Places in America,” Mayor Dale Ross said. “Our downtown, with art galleries, museums, our public library and street festivals, is also a state-recognized cultural district. This wonderful recognition for the heart of our community is a tribute to our citizens who have cared for the historic buildings as well as the people who live and work and visit here.” Since launching the Great Places in America program in 2007, APA has recognized 290 neighborhoods, streets and public spaces around the country. Designees are selected annually and represent the gold standard for a true sense of place, cultural and historical interest, community involvement and a vision for the future, the release said.