Revitalization efforts under way in Downtown Arlington continue to gather praise.

This month, the Greater Dallas Planning Council collectively recognized the City of Arlington's new City Center, along with the adjacent Urban Union and 101 Center developments, with its Built Project Urban Design Award.

The Great Dallas Planning Council's awards recognize people and projects whose excellence and leadership have impacted urban design and urban planning in the Dallas region. Arlington was highlighted for its multi-block, urban mixed-use project that includes the new Council Chamber, George W. Hawkes Downtown Library and the City Plaza public gathering space; the new residential lofts, small offices, restaurant and retail space and shared garage parking at 101 Center; and the new restaurant and retail space at Urban Union on Front Street. Project participants include the City of Arlington, Catalyst Urban Development, Dodson Development Designers, Dewberry Architects, and WDG Architects.

"The City's vision and the creative collaboration with private developers and the UT-Arlington has finally paid off. It is exciting to see a City Center that is vibrant and truly acts as a mixed-use center of activity," said Gincy Thoppil, Planning and Development Services director. "With the recently adopted Downtown Master Plan, I see the continued momentum in creating Downtown Arlington's identity as a premier place to launch, grow, and nurture the American Dream."