NEWS

DDD honored by International Downtown Association!

Covalent Logic Participates in Award-Winning Work
The Downtown Development District (DDD) of Baton Rouge, Louisiana has received the 2009 Award of Distinction in Downtown Leadership and Management from The International Downtown Association (IDA).

The project submitted (formation and creation of measures for the Arts & Entertainment District as an example of a work project) was one of 77 award submissions The International Downtown Association (IDA) received this year as part of its Downtown Achievement Awards. "The number and breadth of entries made judging a difficult task," said Jane Jenkins, chairman of IDA and the awards program. "The awards jury was impressed with the accomplishments of the winners and is pleased to honor the Downtown Development District of Baton Rouge, Louisiana among them."

"Having the Downtown Development District recognized by its peers and this preeminent organization demonstrates how leadership in successful partnerships of planning and implementation, are shaping our great city. This is a model for others to emulate. Congratulations to the Board and Staff," commented Mayor President Kip Holden.

"We take our role in developing our downtown area of the city with the utmost respect and care. Under the leadership of our Mayor and Metropolitan Council, many great things are underway now. The momentum in development is evident. It is an exciting time to be in Baton Rouge," commented Van Mayhall Jr, Downtown Development District Board Chairman.

"We are elated over this award from IDA. It is a direct reflection of the community and the cooperative spirit of Baton Rouge. The DDD would not be where it is today without the help and support of our Mayor, the Metropolitan Council, public and non-profit agencies and the private sector, who continually step up to the plate and invest in downtown Baton Rouge," stated Davis Rhorer, the Executive Director of the Downtown Development District. " Winning back to back major awards from the IDA (The DDD won for its comprehensive wayfinding signage program in 2008.) conveys that Baton Rouge is on the radar in downtown circles worldwide and is certainly a place to check out."

The 2009 Downtown Achievement Award winners were recognized during IDA's 55th Annual Conference in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on September 11-15th, 2009.

The Downtown Baton Rouge Arts & Entertainment District (the District) is the latest example of the Downtown Development District's (DDD) successful and innovative approach to downtown leadership and management. Officially established in 2008, this 15 block, mixed-use residential area is anchored by historic neighborhoods and buildings, North Boulevard Town Square, Capitol Park and the majestic banks of the Mississippi Riverfront. With a growing number of restaurants, galleries, shops and live entertainment venues, the District brings together downtown visitors, workers, and residents for a variety of culturally inspired activities. You can view the proposal submitted at this link:

http://www.downtownbatonrouge.org/IDA2009Award.asp

Since its inception in 1987, the DDD has worked tirelessly to transform downtown Baton Rouge, driving extensive community planning processes and providing services to support $2.36 billion of public and private projects. In the coming years it will continue building on these successes by further activating development, enhancing the pedestrian experience and implementing a comprehensive greening program. As the primary agency responsible for executing the Plan Baton Rouge II master plan, the DDD will continue playing a central role in shaping and energizing downtown.

Founded in 1954, the International Downtown Association has more than 650 member organizations worldwide including: North America, Europe, Asia and Africa. Through our network of committed individuals, rich body of knowledge and unique capacity to nurture community-building partnerships, IDA is a guiding force in creating healthy and dynamic centers that anchor the well being of towns, cities and regions of the world.

Contact info: Davis Rhorer - 225.337.9922

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