Governor's Smart Communities Awards
The Governor’s Smart Communities Awards recognize outstanding efforts of local communities and their partners throughout the state, creating vibrant and livable communities by achieving the goals of the Growth Management Act and other community development objectives. The Department of Commerce administers the awards program.
Held each year since 2006, the Awards recognize local governments whose exceptional planning efforts have significantly enriched their communities in the areas of job growth, economic development, housing affordability, homelessness, parks and recreation, transportation and subarea development. These achievements are outstanding models for Washington’s local governments.

Announcements

Nominations open for 2023 Governor’s Smart Communities Awards
Annual awards program celebrates excellence in planning for future growth, livable communities Olympia, WA — The Washington State Department of Commerce is seeking nominations for the 17th annual Governor’s Smart Communities Awards, a program that recognizes outstanding work by local governments and their partners on community planning and development. For almost 20 years, this program has celebrated the accomplishments of local communities that make Washington state an extraordinary place to
2023 Nomination Guidelines
Please use the following forms to submit your nominations for the 2023 GSCA Awards program. Please contact Valerie.smith@commerce.wa.gov if you have questions or need assistance.
Categories
- Cover form – Guidelines for qualifying (Word)
- Smart Vision Award (Word)
- Smart Projects Award (Word)
- Smart Partnerships Award (Word)
- Smart Housing Strategies Award (Word)
- Smart Equity Strategies Award (Word)
- Smart Climate Change Strategies Award (Word)
- Smart Planning Legacy Award (Word)
Video Highlights from 2020-2021 Award Winners
Key Topics
Growth Management
Governor’s Smart Communities Awards Program
GMA Laws and Rules
GMA Periodic Update
Growth Management Grants
Growth Management Topics
Guidebooks and Resources
Civilian-Military Compatibility
Defense Community Compatibility
Regional Planners’ Forums
Short Course on Local Planning
Submitting Materials to the State for Review
Call for Nominations!
Contact
Valerie Smith, AICP Deputy Managing Director
Valerie.Smith@Commerce.wa.gov
Phone: 360-259-0487