Nominations are now open for the 1,000 Friends of Iowa’s Best Development Awards program. The awards program, in its 22nd year, recognizes Iowa’s thoughtfully considered projects and programs that connect building, land, natural resources, development, positive community impact and quality of life, as well as the organizations and people responsible for those projects and programs. With a mission focused on responsible land use, 1,000 Friends of Iowa, a statewide nonprofit organization focused on promoting responsible land use and sustainability, promotes smart planning principles that help communities. There is a $25 fee to submit a nomination, and anyone can nominate, or self-nominate, for the following categories: new civic, renovated civic, new commercial, renovated commercial, innovative leadership, mixed use, renewable energy, new residential, renovated residential, stormwater management, transportation/complete streets and placemaking/greenspace. The nomination deadline is Nov. 17. Winners will be chosen by independent jurors in December, and an awards ceremony is scheduled for Jan. 23, 2024. For more information about the nominating process, click here.