The American Planning Association (APA) recently named Fort Worth's West Magnolia Avenue one of this year's 5 Great Streets as part of the association's Great Places in America project, which recognizes places that foster cultural growth and enrich citizens' quality of life.

The American Planning Association (APA) recently named Fort Worth's West Magnolia Avenue one of this year's 5 Great Streets as part of the association's Great Places in America project, which recognizes places that foster cultural growth and enrich citizens' quality of life.

Other streets on the list include Cushman Street in Fairbanks, Alaska; East Cross Street in Ypsilanti, Michigan; Fayetteville Street in Raleigh, North Carolina; and State Street in Bristol, Tennessee and Bristol, Virginia.

In addition, the APA awarded the street as one of the 15 Great Places for 2018. According to the association, West Magnolia Avenue “serves as a model for collaboration and community benefit for other streets around the country.”

The APA praised West Magnolia's revitalization efforts for historical preservation and economic contributions, from the street's rapid business growth to improvements in urban design and walkability.

“This year's designees demonstrate the importance of planning in creating places that enhance everyone's quality of life,” APA president Cynthia Bowen said in a statement. “Because of Fort Worth's community-wide engagement, West Magnolia Avenue is a national example of how a community can work together to create access and opportunity for all.”