The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced that the application period for the 12th Annual National Award for Smart Growth Achievement is open. This competition is open to public- and private-sector entities that have successfully used smart growth principles to improve communities environmentally, socially, and economically. Winners will be recognized at a ceremony in Washington, D.C., in December 2013.

EPA is accepting nominations in these categories:

• Built Projects
• Corridor and Neighborhood Revitalization
• Plazas, Parks, and Public Places
• Policies, Programs, and Plans.

In addition, the review panel will choose an Overall Excellence winner from those that apply in these four categories.

The application can be submitted by either a public-sector or private-sector entity, but all applications must include a public-sector partner. The application deadline is April 12, 2013.

EPA will film short videos of the winning projects, which will be shown at the awards ceremony in 2013 and the New Partners for Smart Growth Conference in 2014 and posted on the EPA smart growth website.

More informaition is available here.