San Angelo's River Walk Designated Great Public Space

SAN ANGELO, TX - Today, the Texas Chapter of the American Planning Association announced that San Angelo's River Walk has been designated a Great Public Space by the state chapter's Great Places in Texas Program, said an APA press release.

"Great Places in Texas exemplify exceptional character and highlight in the role planners and planning play in creating communities of lasting value," said the release. "This year marks the inaugural year of the Great Places in Texas program, which is modeled from the American Planning Association's ongoing Great Places in America program."

Lori Schwarz, Chair of Great Places in Texas Selection Committee, said, "The San Angelo River Walk serves as the city's primary social, cultural, and recreational focal point, and is an exceptional example of a Great Place in Texas. The Selection Committee was impressed with the San Angelo community and their investment to enhance a space that promotes social interaction and sense of community."

According to the release, through the support of San Angelo residents who allocated over $15 million in sales tax revenue for the beautification and enhancement of the River Walk, this public space now boasts a wide range of amenities including paddle-boating, fishing, miniature golf, public art, and extensive parks and trails.

"Through Great Places in Texas, the Texas Chapter of APA recognizes unique and authentic characteristics found in three essential components of all communities--streets, neighborhoods, and public spaces," noted the release. "APA Great Places offer better choices for where and how people work and live every day, places that are enjoyable, safe, and desirable."

These places are defined by architectural features, accessibility, functionality, and community involvement.

The other Great Places in Texas designees for 2017 include:

• Downtown McKinney
• North Richland Hills--HomeTown
• Fredericksburg--Main Street
• Georgetown Town Square
• Springtown Tabernacle

For more information about the 2017 Great Places in Texas and a list of the Great Places in America designees located in the state, visit www.txplanning.org/greatplaces.