August 31, 2011

Sen. Robert Menendez (D-N.J.) Honored for His Commitment to Good Planning Practices

CHICAGO — U.S. Sen. Robert Menendez (D-N.J.), was selected by the American Planning Association (APA) as the 2011 Legislator of the Year. His outstanding leadership within the U.S. Senate exemplifies his commitment to good planning and smart growth as a means of improving our communities.

Menendez's vision and leadership has been instrumental in ensuring that the nation's transportation, housing, and environmental agencies work together. He has championed innovative programs such as the Partnership for Sustainable Communities and Choice Neighborhoods at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). And he has played an important role in advancing green buildings and location efficiency in federal policy.

"Senator Menendez has a distinguished record of championing programs that enable planners to build communities of lasting value," said Jason Jordan, APA's director of government affairs.

APA will present Menendez with his 2011 Legislator of the Year award at APA's Federal Policy and Program Briefing in Washington, D.C., on September 20, 2011.

The Legislator of the Year award recognizes members of Congress who have excelled in advancing the interests of building more livable and competitive communities through planning. One representative and one senator are recognized annually.

Visit www.planning.org/awards for more information about all of the 2011 award recipients.

Contact

Roberta Rewers, APA Public Affairs; 312-786-6395; rrewers@planning.org