Washington, DC – Apr. 17, 2018 – The Grand Rapids Vital Streets Plan won a 2018 National Planning Achievement Award from the American Planning Association.

Developed over 12 months and adopted in December 2016, the Grand Rapids Vital Streets Plan outlines the principles and design goals for rebuilding more accessible, safe streets that integrates green infrastructure and protects the region’s waterways. The plan aims to reduce single-occupant vehicle travel from 95 percent in 2016 to 45 percent by 2035, and reduce fatalities and serious injuries from traffic accidents.

The plan defines street types — specific to Grand Rapids — based on transportation function and surrounding land use, and creates a framework for the newly formed Community Engagement Division to assist with the city’s outreach activities. The Vital Streets Plan is an ongoing effort to create a more healthy, safe, and livable city.
Congrats to Lilly Shoup, Tom Brown, Stephanie Wright, Dru Van Hengel, Tomoko DeLaTorre, and Kevin Ottem!

For more information on this and other award-winning projects, check out the following link: https://www.planning.org/awards/2018/achievement/