By Innovation Destination Hartford

During its 64^th Annual Conference and Tradeshow in San Antonio, TX, the International Downtown Association (IDA) recognized the Hartford Business Improvement District (HBID) with two top industry honors.

The HBID received a Pinnacle Award, making it one of only eight districts worldwide to receive the industry’s highest honor, which represents the most creative and inspiring innovations in urban place management.

The Pinnacle Award was given to the HBID in recognition of its work to mitigate the negative effects of construction at the on-street level. The HBID designed, printed, and provided non-traditional construction signage to draw attention to local businesses impacted by construction projects, and to change public perception regarding construction projects in the District.

“These innovative projects set an outstanding example for cities around the world,” said David Downey, IDA President and CEO. “IDA members continue to champion livable, vital and thriving urban centers. Each of these projects has made its particular city a better place for the people who live and work there.”

The HBID also received the Award of Excellence for its free on-site Bicycle Roadside Assistance Program to acknowledge its excellent response to an industry challenge.

“The Bicycle Roadside Assistance Program is a shining example of excellent urban place management delivering real value to the city and an exemplary response to a community challenge,” said David.

“We are immensely proud to be recognized alongside such inspiring industry leaders from cities all over the world,” said Jordan Polon, HBID Executive Director. “The work we do here comes from our love of this place and we are thrilled to bring these awards home to our Ambassadors, Board of Commissioners, and community partners in the District.”

In 2018, the IDA received a record-breaking 80+ submissions from urban areas around the world. The winning projects were selected from six categories, including:

• Downtown leadership and management
• Economic and business development
• Events and programming
• Marketing and communications
• Planning
• Public space

The winning organizations represent nearly 50 cities in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and South Africa.

The 2018 Downtown Achievement Awards are sponsored by ABM, Inc. Visit IDA for a complete list of award winners.