Smart growth approaches have proven effective in reshaping the face of the built environment. Communities across the country, be it urban hubs or bedroom communities, cities, towns or rural places, have embraced green building principles in an effort to foster healthy neighborhoods and create strong local economies. Smart growth features in community development include the creation of mixed-income, mixed-use housing; use of green infrastructure to manage storm water; prioritizing cleanup and redevelopment of hazardous brownfield sites; providing transportation choices that reduce air pollution; and considering the impacts of development decisions on all community members. In a milestone for sustainability and compact development, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recognized Domus Development, led by founding partner Meea Kang, as winner of the 2013 National Award for Smart Growth Achievement in the “Built Projects” category. Sacramento’s La Valentina urban infill project got all the attention this year, all for the right reasons, as it is the region’s first true transit-oriented development which achieves a near Net Zero energy use and cost for residents. The National Award for Smart Growth Achievement recognizes communities that use innovative techniques and solutions to foster economic growth, enhance quality of life and safeguard the environment. In the past 12 years, 61 winners from 26 states have shown a variety of approaches that states, regions, cities, suburbs, and rural communities can use to create economically strong, environmentally responsible development. EPA’s Office of Sustainable Communities manages the awards program. The 2013 National Award for Smart Growth Achievement brought forward five winners and two honorable mentions in the following categories: Overall Excellence – Winner: Atlanta Beltline Eastside Trail/Historic Fourth Ward Park, Atlanta BeltLine, Inc., Atlanta, Ga. Corridor or Neighborhood Revitalization  – Winner: Historic Millwork District and Washington Neighborhood, Dubuque, Iowa Plazas, Parks, and Public...