Lacombe is getting national recognition for its historic main street and flatiron building, which welcomes visitors to the downtown.
The Canadian Institute of Planners announced its 2013 Canadian Great Places. Lacombe’s main street won the grand prize, selected based both on popularity and planning excellence by a panel of experts, for the great street category. Judge Gary Noble said it was chosen in part because the Edwardian buildings are seen as a valuable community resource.
“Not only to be appreciated, but to be used,” said Noble. “City programs have supported and enhanced the vitality of this historic setting, and its centre of community activities year round.” The Red Deer Public Market was in the running in the public places category, but lost out to the Saint John City Market in Saint John, N.B.
There were 68 nominations this year with more than 100,000 votes cast from Canadians across the country. The 2013 winners have been announced as part of World Town Planning Day, which takes place on today.