High Point recognized for excellence by ULI

One of ten projects nationwide awarded highest prize

SEATTLE—May 11, 2007—The High Point development team received its highest honor to date this month when the mixed-income community received an Urban Land Institute Award for Excellence.

Al Levine, SHA's deputy executive director for development and asset management, accepted the award on behalf of SHA at ULI's Spring Council Forum, held May 10 and 11 in Chicago. "It is a real tribute to both SHA and the community that High Point is recognized so widely for its design and livability," he noted.

The ULI awards are widely recognized as the land use industry’s most prestigious recognition program. The competition is part of the Institute’s Awards for Excellence program, established in 1979, which is based on ULI’s guiding principle that the achievement of excellence in land use practice should be recognized and rewarded.

ULI’s Awards for Excellence recognize the full development process of a project, not just its architecture or design. Criteria for the awards include leadership, contribution to the community, innovations, public/private partnership, environmental protection and enhancement, response to societal needs and financial success.

High Point was one of just ten projects nationwide to receive the award. It was also recognized as one of three out of the ten winners that will be submitted for an international ULI award.

The 2007 winners were chosen from a field of 23 finalists among 170 entries from North, Central and South America. Projects were evaluated on the basis of financial viability, the resourceful use of land, design, relevance to contemporary issues and sensitivity to the community and environment. Each contributes to a live-work-play environment and is designed to complement and enhance the greater community.

A committee of judges from the Urban Land Institute visited Seattle to evaluate the project. They toured the site, talked with residents and consulted with public officials.

The Urban Land Institute (www.uli.org) is a nonprofit education and research institute supported by its members. Its mission is to provide leadership in the responsible use of land and in creating and sustaining thriving communities worldwide. Established in 1936, the Institute has more than 35,000 members representing all aspects of land use.