Guest feature: John Coleman is the Public Information Officer for the Maryland Department of Planning . Follow along with Planning on Facebook  and Twitter .

In the coming weeks, the Maryland Department of Planning (MDP) will present this year’s Maryland Sustainable Growth Awards in the categories of Leadership and Service, Sustainable Communities, and Preservation/Conservation.

Marking its 11th year, the Maryland Sustainable Growth Awards recognize individuals, organizations, and programs that exemplify well-planned economic and community development initiatives with outstanding care towards sustainability throughout the state.

The six winners and one honorable mention are individuals and organizations that demonstrate their commitment and care for sustainable growth – development or redevelopment that is compact, walkable, and takes advantage of the existing infrastructure while preserving the rural landscape in Maryland. Encompassing a wide range of projects, this year’s awards recognizes work done in furthering education, planning efforts, and reimagining spaces that all help make Maryland a greener and more equitable state.

“These award recipients are at the forefront of sustainable growth planning and practices, and for that Maryland’s future is brighter,” said Maryland Department of Planning Secretary Rebecca L. Flora. “I congratulate the recipients for their efforts and for providing shining examples of sustainable work, in turn inspiring jurisdictions and communities alike to engage in similar efforts.”

Secretary Flora will present the awards at the following recipient locations:

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