The 2011 Great Places in America list, out this week, proclaims the nation’s best 10 neighborhoods, streets and public spaces, as chosen by professional planners who make up the American Planning Association.
What this year’s neighborhoods have in common is that they exude a sense of place. “You don’t feel like you’re in Everywhere, USA,” says Denny Johnson, the APA’s public affairs coordinator.
PHOTO GALLERY: Tour America’s best neighborhoods
Other attributes: distinctive architectural and topographical features, and a sense of engagement on the part of the residents.
The complete list that includes 2011’s great streets and public spaces is on the APA website. And this year’s 10 best neighborhoods 2011 are …
Highland Park in Birmingham, Ala., with its multiple historic districts featuring 20 architectural styles, from Queen Anne to Craftsman.
Northbrae in Berkeley, Calif., is notable for its dramatic volcanic outcroppings and scenic views of the San Francisco Bay. Foot trails abound.
Ansley Park in Atlanta sports a linear greenway of 14 parks inspired by the landscapes of Frederick Law Olmsted.
The Pullman Neighborhood in Chicago, developed by George Pullman, manufacturer of the rail cars of the same name, provided decent housing for his workers.
Gold Coast & Hamburg Historic District in Davenport, Iowa, was dubbed the Gold Coast because in the late 1800s when it was founded, there was said to be more money there than in local banks. The neighborhood has great Mississippi River views.
Hattiesburg Historic Neighborhood in Hattiesburg, Miss., has benefitted from a high level of community engagement in caring for its historic structures.
Dundee Memorial Park in Omaha, an early street car suburb (now annexed by the city), has its own commercial district, tree-lined streets and a community garden.
German Village in Columbus, Ohio, was almost destroyed in the late ’60s and early ’70s by freeway construction. But the mid-19th century homes were renovated and the neighborhood thrives today.
Swan Lake in Tulsa, Okla., is another street-car suburb developed early in the 20th century. It supports an active farmers market, and yes, there’s a lake.
College Hill in Providence, R.I., near Brown University, has great architecture and great views. It was one of the first neighborhoods to declare that historic preservation has value.
Does your neighborhood deserve consideration for inclusion on the Great Places list?