Point Defiance is a "Great Space"

It seems like a given to us, but now it’s official: Tacoma’s Point Defiance has been chosen as one of 10 “Great Public Spaces in America” by the American Planning Association. The association sites the assets, both natural and man-made that make the park a public treasure.

This year’s other Public Spaces winners include parks in both urban and rural settings, both large and small. The APA also named 10 Great Neighborhoods and 10 Great Streets. All three categories were selected on a variety of criteria, described by the APA on its website:

APA’s flagship program celebrates places of exemplary character, quality, and planning. Places are selected annually and represent the gold standard in terms of having a true sense of place, cultural and historical interest, community involvement, and a vision for tomorrow.

APA Great Places offer better choices for where and how people work and live. They are enjoyable, safe, and desirable. They are places where people want to be — not only to visit, but to live and work every day. America’s truly great streets, neighborhoods and public spaces are defined by many criteria, including architectural features, accessibility, functionality, and community involvement.

Anyone can nominate a place… Based on these criteria, are there other places in Tacoma might qualify as Great Places, whether public spaces, neighborhoods, or streets? What decisions could be made to push other Tacoma places on the verge of greatness over the brink?

The News Tribune gives more info on the selection here.