Broken Arrow, OK, Takes First Place Honors in the 2018 City Livability Award
ASHBURN, Va., July 5, 2018 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- The Institute for Building Technology and Safety (IBTS), a nonprofit organization, is pleased to announce that Broken Arrow, OK, recently received the 2018 City Livability Award during the U.S. Conference of Mayors' 86th Annual Meeting in Boston. The Mayor of Broken Arrow, Craig Thurmond, serves as the Chairman on IBTS's Board of Directors.
This marks the 39th year in which cities have competed for the award, which recognizes mayoral leadership in the development and implementation of programs focused on improving the quality of life in America's cities. The 2018 winners were selected from a pool of over 150 applicants.
Mayor Thurmond accepted the first place honor, along with Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn, for the revitalization of his city's Rose District. The Broken Arrow City Council initiated its downtown revitalization plan in 2005. The changes that have emerged from this plan have elevated the quality of life for residents and brought a 2,025% increase in municipal sales taxes collected, more than 1,000 new jobs, and over 70 new businesses into the area. By offering unique dining, local artisan products, nightlife, entertainment and cultural experiences, the Rose District is now one of the most popular destinations in the region.
"We are so fortunate to have such an accomplished individual serving on our Board," said Ashok Goswami, Chief Executive Officer at IBTS. "We value the guidance we receive from Mayor Thurmond and look forward to the continued success he will bring Broken Arrow."
About IBTS
IBTS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to helping communities through quality services that reduce risk, enhance public safety, and improve quality of life. IBTS is headquartered in Ashburn, Virginia with branch offices across the country. IBTS's work is guided by a Board of Directors made up of government officials appointed by five of the most highly respected, grassroots, state and local governmental associations, including the Council of State Governments (CSG), International City/County Management Association (ICMA), National Association of Counties (NACo), National Governors Association Center for Best Practices (NGA Center), and National League of Cities (NLC).
SOURCE Institute for Building Technology and Safety
