Official Web Site of the City of Phoenix

This Webpage lists all awards and recognitions the city has earned within the last few years, organized by year. To view the awards by category, please use the navigation at the left.

Information is currently available online for the current year, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2000, 1993 and 1989.

2008

National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO)

(July 2008) The Arizona Chapter of NAHRO recently presented the city's Housing Department with three awards at this year’s annual conference. The awards recognize excellence in providing important services and a better living environment for residents of public and affordable housing. Read the news release

U.S. Green Building Council, LEED Gold Certification

(July 2008) The Glenrosa Service Center received the city's first Gold certification for its use of sustainable materials. The service center, which houses multiple departmental operations for the city’s west side, is owned and maintained by the Public Works Department. Read the news release

Digipalooza OverDrive, 2008 Digital Pioneer Award

(July 2008) Phoenix Public Library received the award in recognition of exceptional leadership and excellence in delivering digital media to the community. The award was presented at Digipalooza OverDrive’s International User Group Conference in Cleveland, Ohio. Read the news release

Silver State Bank/ASBA/O'Neil Associates Arizona Economic Indicators Monitor, Most Business Friendly City

(July 2008) Twenty-seven percent of the Arizona Small Business Association's 3,000 members polled in the June survey listed Phoenix as the most business friendly government entity in the state's metro areas. Glendale with 17 percent of the vote, and Scottsdale, at 15 percent, were next in line. Trailing in the poll were Tucson and Chandler, both at 11 percent, Tempe with 10 percent, Pinal County at 7 percent and Mesa at the bottom with 3 percent.

Sister Cities International, Best Overall Sister City Program in U.S.

(July 2008) The Sister Cities International organization in Washington, D.C., awarded Phoenix its highest honor for cities with a population of 500,000 or more. This is the eventh time in the past 13 years that Phoenix has won this award. Read the news release

U.S. Green Building Council, LEEDS Silver Certification

(June 2008) The Phoenix Convention Center's West Building received the certification for its use of the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system. The West Building, which opened in June 2006, was designed by Leo A Daly and HOK to achieve LEED certification for energy use, lighting, water and material use as well as incorporating a variety of other sustainable strategies. Read the news release

29th Annual Telly Awards

(June 2008) The Water Services Department won numerous awards for its highly entertaining Empty Glasses public service video and the acclaimed PHX 11 WATERways series. The public service announcement, featuring actor Leslie Nielsen, was awarded a silver Telly, the organization's highest honor, for writing, and three bronze Tellys for use of humor, lighting and set design. Read the news release

POLICOM Corporation, 2008 Economic Strength Rankings

(June 2008) POLICOM, an organization that specializes in studying the dynamics of local economies, recently ranked the Phoenix Metropolitan Area sixth out of 363 metropolitan areas in terms of economic strength. Last year, Phoenix was ranked seventh. Read news release

International Academy of the Visual Arts, Communicator Award

(May 2008) The Neighborhood Services Department (NSD) and PHX11 received the award for "Phoenix Working for You," a live, call-in show in March 2007 that featured interviews with NSD staff about department programs and services. Read the news release

Standard & Poors (S&P) and Moody's Investors Service, AA- and Aa3 Bond Ratings

(May 2008) Airport Revenue Bonds, which are used to help fund major projects at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, received the ratings from two of the world’s most respected and widely used sources for credit ratings. The ratings are among the highest afforded to airports nationwide. Read the news release

National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (NAHRO), Awards of Merit

(May 2008) The Neighborhood Services Department (NSD) is receiving national recognition for removing abandoned shopping carts in neighborhoods and providing home maintenance classes to homeowners receiving housing rehabilitation assistance. Read the news release

Public Technology Institute, 2007-2008 Technology Solutions Awards - Significant Achievement

(May 2008) The Neighborhood Services Department (NSD) received the award for implementing the use of laptops, docking ports and wireless printers for its housing rehabilitation specialists to use in the field. Read the news release

Public Technology Institute, 2007-2008 Technology Solutions Awards - Winner

(May 2008) The Aviation Department recently was recognized in the Technology and Information Technology category for its disaster recovery plan. Read the news release

Public Technology Institute, 2007-2008 Technology Solutions Awards

(May 2008) The Public Technology Institute (PTI), a national, non-profit technology organization that promotes the use of technology to achieve excellence in local governance and management, recently recognized the city of Phoenix with the awards. Read the news release

American Association of Museums, Publications Design Competition First Prize

(May 2008) Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport’s Museum program received the award for Supplementary Materials for postcards of featured art exhibits at the airport. This award recognizes the outstanding work of the talented and dedicated Airport Museum staff.

American Planning Association, National Planning Landmark Award

(April 2008) The Planning Department received the award for the Phoenix Mountain Preserve Plan. More than 30 years ago, the city of Phoenix set a national precedent when it protected 7,500 acres of open space in the Phoenix Mountains. Read the news release

Phoenix College, Award of Excellence

(April 2008) The city’s Language Education and Diversity Sensitivity (LEADS) cultural awareness and language program received an award of excellence from Phoenix College. Instructors for the program have taught classes on 15 different cultures to more than 1,300 people in the past 7 years.

National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), Roy Wilkins Award

(April 2008) Assistant Police Chief Kevin Robinson received this highest honor from the Maricopa County branch of the NAACP for outstanding community service. Chief Robinson has served with Phoenix Police Department for 27 years.

City of Phoenix Public Works Department, Electrical Apprentice of the Year

(April 2008) Aviation electrician Erica Thomas received the honor following 8,000 hours of training and classroom instruction. Erica works in the Facilities and Service division and joined the Aviation Department from the Public Works Department.

Phoenix College, Black Student Union Living Legend Award

(April 2008) Fannie Jackson in Councilman Michael Johnson’s office received the award in recognition of a lifetime of service to the community and local organizations.

Roads and Streets Maintenance Rodeo, First Place

(April 2008) A crew from the Street Transportation Department's Maintenance Division won first place at the recent event in Mesa. The Asphalt Patch Team included Ray Cruz, Fernando Figueroa, Leondre Harris and Ernest Gongora, all from the Southwest General Maintenance Yard. It’s the third year in a row that employees from that site have won the asphalt patch event.

Arizona State University, A. Wade Smith Community Award

(April 2008) Doris Marshall from the Human Services Department was honored with this year’s award for her part in the advancement of race relations. Doris oversees the city’s senior centers and has been helping the elderly community in many ways for more than a quarter century.

Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), Pro Patria Award

(April 2008)The city, along with the Fire, Police and Aviation departments, was honored with the award for supporting employees deployed in Operation Enduring/Iraqi Freedom. The Pro Patria award is presented annually to employers who demonstrate exceptional support for U.S. national defense by adopting personnel policies that make it easier for employees to participate in the National Guard and Reserve. Read the news release

Make a Difference, Difference-Maker Award

(April 2008) The Neighborhood Services Department (NSD) was honored for partnering with the nonprofit organization on successful neighborhood and community improvement efforts. Read the news release

Arizona Department of Transportation-Aeronautics Division, Airport of the Year

(April 2008) Phoenix Goodyear Airport received the honor for its excellence in community relations, airport management, airport maintenance activities as well as innovative activities and programs implemented at the airport. Read the news release

The Phoenix Business Journal, 2008 Forty-Under-40

(April 2008) The publication recognized four city employees for their community service efforts by featuring them in the 2008 Forty-Under-40 section of a recent edition. The employees are Alexandra Jones from Budget and Research, Ruben Gallego from District 7 Councilman Nowakowski’s office, and Cynthia Weaver and Stephanie Ribodal from the Public Information Office.

Black Enterprise Magazine Online, Growing a Green Business

(April 2008) The city's Environmentally Preferable Purchasing (EPP) program was featured in a recent article as an example of how government is getting green.

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Perfect Safety Inspection

(March 2008) The FAA announced that Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport had completed its third straight year of receiving a perfect safety inspection, citing its clean and well-maintained airfield, with zero runway incursions in the past year. Read the news release

USA Today, "10 Great Places to Find a Nook and Read a Book"

(March 2008) Burton Barr Central Library was featured in a March 6, 2008, listing of the ten greatest places to curl up and read. The list was compiled by Nancy Pearl, author of "Book Lust."

Valley Forward Association, "A" Grade in Annual Environmental Report Card

(March 2008) Phoenix received straight A's in the report that rated local government agencies’ response to growth in their region. The report card is an analysis of how individual communities address issues that impact the quality of life for residents today and tomorrow. Read the news release

National League of Cities and National Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials, Excellence in Diversity Award

(March 2008) The city was recognized for the "Healing Racism" community dialogue series sponsored by the Phoenix Human Relations Commission, the Phoenix Equal Opportunity Department and community partners. Read the news release

National League of Cities and National Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials, City Cultural Diversity Runner-Up Award

(March 2008) The Neighborhood Services Department was recognized for last year's "Taking It To The Streets" celebration, which showcased diverse Phoenix communities and neighborhood groups. Read the news release

Hotwire.com, Top Travel Value

(March 2008) Hotwire.com recognized Phoenix as the most affordable vacation spot in the Web site’s third annual Travel Value Index.

BlueCross BlueShield of Arizona, Ageless Hero Award

(February 2008) Manzanita Senior Center Supervisor Anita Van Boerum was selected as one of BlueCross BlueShield of Arizona’s seven 2008 Ageless Heroes. Read the news release

Women in Transportation, Metropolitan Phoenix Chapter, Woman of the Year

(February 2008) Deputy Aviation Director Tamie Fisher was awarded Woman of the Year in February, by the Metropolitan Phoenix chapter of Women in Transportation.

United Blood Services, Valentines for Life Awards

(February 2008) Four city blood drive locations received these annual awards based on their high percentage of participation. The Platinum Award went to the Police Academy and Headquarters, Gold to City Hall, and Bronze to Aviation and the Phoenix Convention Center.

South Mountain Laveen Chamber of Commerce, "Spirit of South Mountain" Award

(February 2008) Ocotillo Library was recently recognized for its 40-year history of helping local children and teens to learn to love reading, being the first library in the Phoenix Public Library system to offer Internet access to the community, and providing resources for job searching, resume writing and researching information. Read the news release

2007

Public Technology Institute, Technology Solution Award

(December 2007) The city won a PTI Solution award for a text resizing enhancement to the phoenix.gov site, and honorable mention for the "Common Contact Us Page" and IVR/Web projects.

Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals, Platinum and Gold AVA Award

(December 2007) The Development Services Department (DSD) and PHX 11 were honored with the awards for episodes of the "Building Phoenix" show, highlighting residential and commercial development in the city of Phoenix. Read the news release

Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals, Gold AVA Award

(December 2007) The Neighborhood Services Department (NSD) and PHX 11 received the award for "Phoenix Working for You," a live, call-in show that featured interviews with NSD staff about department programs and services. The AVA marks the fourth national award that the city's cable station and NSD have received this year for the show. Read the news release

Association of Immunization Managers, Bulls-Eye Award

(November 2007) The Phoenix Fire Department’s child-immunization program won a national award from the Association of Immunization Managers – the first-ever Bull’s-Eye award. It honors the department’s successful Baby Shots program, which has provided regularly scheduled child immunizations to areas of need within the city for more than 12 years.

Center for Digital Government, Top Ten Digital Cities 2007

(November 2007) The Center for Digital Government, a national research and advisory institute on information technology policies and best practices in state and local government, recently recognized Phoenix as one of the Top Ten Digital Cities for 2007. Read the news release

Time Magazine, Rapidly Greening City

(November 2007) A recent article on green roofs mentioned Phoenix among other cities with strong environmental commitments. Read the article

National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors (NATOA), Program Awards

(October 2007) NATOA honored three city of Phoenix video productions as winners of its 22nd Annual Government Programming Awards. The winners were the “Men in Dragnet” public service announcement and the “WATERways Think About Water" episode from the Water Services Department; and the “METH: don’t even start” video, which was a joint production of the city’s PHX11 and know99 channels.

Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, "40 Hispanic Leaders Under 40" Awards

(October 2007) Senior Assistant to the Mayor Gerardo Higginson and Public Information Officer Stephanie Ribodal were selected as recipients of the inaugural 40 Hispanic Leaders Under 40 Awards hosted by the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

Environmental Protection Agency, Green Electronics Champion Award

(October 2007)The city’s sustainability efforts received a nod of approval from the Environmental Protection Agency by garnering the city an EPA Green Electronics Champion Award for making computer purchases from manufacturers with Electronic Products Environmental Assessment Tool (EPEAT) registered products. Read the news release

Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Most Valuable Player Award

(October 2007) The city’s Equal Opportunity Department (EOD) was selected to receive the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Phoenix Field Office's Most Valuable Partner Award, for supporting HUD's initiative of ensuring equal opportunity in housing. This award recognizes the innovative leadership EOD provides through community outreach activities performed in underserved areas of the community while increasing awareness of the Fair Housing Act.

ICMA Award for Local Government Performance

(October 2007) The International City/County Management Association (ICMA) awarded Phoenix, for the sixth year in a row, a Center for Performance Measurement Certificate of Distinction for the city’s continuing efforts in measuring and improving local government performance. The Certificate of Distinction is the higher of CPM’s two levels of recognition, and pays special tribute to efforts to incorporate performance data into decision-making, nurture programs through training and process improvement, and share successes via networking with others.

Solid Waste Association of America (SWANA), 2007 Gold Excellence Award

(October 2007) The City of Phoenix ’s Phoenix North Transfer Station has been selected to receive the Collection & Transfer Division’s 2007 Transfer Station Gold Excellence Award from the Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA). The award recognizes the outstanding planning, design, construction and operation of the city’s North Gateway Transfer Station and Materials Recovery Facility.

Valley Forward Environmental Excellence Award

(September 2007) Several city projects and initiatives were honored for significant contributions to the environment during the annual Valley Forward Environmental Excellence Awards ceremony. The first-place Crescordia Award went to the following city projects: Phoenix Union High School/University of Arizona College of Medicine; North Gateway Transfer Station/Material Recovery Facility; Cesar Chavez Library; the Green Building Expo, a partnership with Scottsdale and Tempe; the Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area; and the Sonoran Preserve Edge Treatment Guidelines.

Bizjournals, Top Market for Job Growth

(September 2007) A recent study named Phoenix as the top market for job growth, with the area’s employment base expanding by 23 percent since 2002, nearly four times the national rate.

Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), Copper Anvil Award

(September 2007) The city of Phoenix won three awards at the local PRSA (Public Relations Society of America) Copper Anvil Awards ceremony this week. The awards recognize outstanding public relations programs in the Phoenix area. The three city initiatives honored at the event were: “33 a Su Lado” Univision telecasts, the METH: don’t even start” video publicity campaign and the phoenix.gov en español Web site. Read the news release

Phoenix Ranks No. 1 in Retail Building

(September 2007) The Phoenix area leads the nation’s list of regions for retail space under construction. Real estate information provided to CoStar’s study says metro Phoenix had 13.4 million retail square feet under construction in the most recent figures.

Housing Department Receives Awards of Merit from National Association of Housing and Redevelopment

(July 2007) The Housing Department received recognition from NAHRO for four housing programs and developments. Read news release

Neighborhood Services Department Receives Recognition from the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment

(July 2007) Phoenix received national recognition for its efforts at removing neighborhood blight, building infill housing and removing health and safety hazards from homes in the community. Read news release

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Smart Growth Implementation and Assistance Award

(July 2007) The cities of Phoenix and Mesa, along with METRO light rail, earned one of six awards from the EPA for the 20-mile light rail project. Read the news release

International District Energy Association (IDEA), Sustainable Energy Leadership Award

(June 2007) The IDEA recognized Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon and Arizona State University President Michael M. Crow with Sustainable Energy Leadership awards. The awards are presented in recognition of exemplary public leadership for sound sustainable energy policy, effective collaboration and community investment, which reflect the vision of IDEA and the district energy industry. ASU has created the School of Sustainability and the Global Institute of Sustainability, and the city of Phoenix has formed a City Council Sustainability Subcommittee. The city’s citizen-based Environmental Quality Commission has been developing environmental policy and recommendations to help shape city programs since the 1980s.

28th Annual Telly Awards

(July 2007) The Water Services Department was recognized for two of its "WATERways" shows and a public service announcement. Read news release

Hermes Creative Awards

(June 2007) PHX 11, the city's news and information station, and the Neighborhood Services Department (NSD) were recognized with a Gold Award for exceeding high industry standards for "Phoenix, Working for You," an inaugural live, primetime broadcast that focused on services provided by NSD. Additionally, NSD received an Honorable Mention for its "Neighborhood News" newsletter. The Hermes Creative Awards is an international competition that recognizes the outstanding work of creative professionals involved in the concept, writing and design of traditional and emerging media.

Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA), Distinguished Budget Award

(June 2007)The GFOA awarded its Distinguished Budget Presentation Award to the city’s 2006-07 Annual Budget. This is the 17th consecutive award for Phoenix and was presented after a panel of reviewers from across the country evaluated the document in four categories: policy document, financial plan, communications device and operations guide.

Government Finance Officers Association, Certificate of Achievement

(June 2007) Phoenix's Finance Department received the highest honor of recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting. The department received the award based on the comprehensive annual report for the 2005-2006 fiscal year.

Arizona State Bar, 2007 Public Lawyer Career Achievement Award

(June 2007) Phoenix City Prosecutor Kerry Wangberg earned the award this year. The award is given to outstanding lawyers and judges who have made extraordinary contributions to the state of Arizona and its justice system.

Expansion Management Magazine

(June 2007) Phoenix was ranked first in the magazine’s list of large metro areas as the best place for recruitment and attraction. Charlotte, N.C. ranked second and Arizona was ranked as the top state. The magazine and National Policy Research Council think tank developed the rankings.

Governor's Heritage Preservation Honor Awards

(June 2007) The city was honored with two of the awards, for the Phoenix Union High School Exterior Rehabilitation for the University of Arizona College of Medicine and the Post World War II Commercial Historic Building Photography Project. Read news release

28th Annual Telly Awards

(June 2007) PHX11 was recognized with nine awards for programming, including the inaugural "Phoenix Working for You," a live, primetime broadcast with the Neighborhood Services Department. Read the news release

Allstate, 2007 America's Best Drivers Report

(June 2007) Phoenicians are the safest big city drivers in the nation according to the 2007 "Allstate America’s Best Drivers Report," holding on to the number one spot for the third year in a row when compared with other cities of 1 million residents or more. Read news release

State of Arizona Road-e-o Competition

(June 2007) Three landfill equipment operators from the Public Works Department earned first place in Arizona's annual competition. The operators - Jaime Gonzalez, Bobby Swadley and Jeff Holland - tested their skills and ability to maneuver equipment through an obstacle course. The operators also won the Overall City Award.

Arizona Community Action Association (ACAA), President's Award

(May 2007) Councilman Greg Stanton was recognized by the ACAA with the organization's highest honor, which recognizes individuals for their commitment to fight poverty and homelessness in the state. Read news release

American Society for Public Administration, Superior Service Award

(May 2007) The Westwood Rental Renaissance Team (WRRT) received national recognition for closing a crime-ridden, 156-unit apartment complex, working with police to shut down an illegal, after-hours club that was the source of constant gunfire and prostitution, and providing approximately 300 underprivileged children with food and gifts. Read news release

Public Technology Institute, Technology Solutions Award

(May 2007) The Neighborhood Services Department (NSD) was recognized nationally for its use of the Geographic Information System (GIS) in a Web-based application that enables city staff and law enforcement entities to share graffiti-related data. Read news release

National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS), Student Award for Excellence

(April 2007) The city’s education cable television station, know99, received two awards from the Rocky Mountain Chapter of NATAS in the Documentary and News categories. Read the news release

Wellness Council of Arizona - Process, Progress and Leadership in Worksite Health Promotion Award

(April 2007) The city's Wellness Program received an award in recognition of the Metabolic Health Initiative the city has sponsored for its employees. The year-long project/study addressed the metabolic health conditions - blood pressure, blood glucose, overweight/obesity, cholesterol.

Arizona State University's Blue Chip Growth Update

(April 2007) The university ranks the Phoenix area first among the nation's largest metro markets for employment growth between February 2007 and February 2006. The area's 4.8 percent increase in total nonagricultural employment represents 89,200 new jobs.

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Green Designation

(April 2007) The Phoenix Neighborhood Services Department (NSD) received the highest federal government rating for its work removing lead hazards in homes throughout Phoenix. Read the news release

SustainLane, Top Ten Cities Using Alt Fuels

(March 2007) SustainLane, a group that compiles information on sustainability, ranked Phoenix seventh in its listing of the top 10 large U.S. cities that are running the highest percentage of their municipal vehicle fleets on alternative fuels. The report found that Phoenix runs 28 percent of its fleet with compressed or liquid natural gas or biodiesel. Get more information

Aircraft Rescue Working Group, Training Officer of the Year

(March 2007) Phoenix Fire Captain Elizabeth Delgado, who works out of Fire Station #19 at Sky Harbor, was chosen as the first "Training Officer of the Year." The award was presented by the Aircraft Rescue Working Group. Delgado is responsible for training firefighters in Aircraft Fire Rescue.

Arizona State University/Black History Month Committee, Pioneer Award

(March 2007) Carole Coles Henry, Equal Opportunity Director, was honored with the award at a recent concert performance of "Handel's Messiah: A Soulful Celebration" at the Orpheum Theatre. The annual award recognizes African-Americans who have made significant contributions to the life and culture of the Phoenix metropolitan area.

Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association (HSMAI) 2007 Bronze Adrian Award

(March 2007) The HSMAI honored the Phoenix Convention Center with the award in the single industry advertisement category. The ad, "A Whole New Angle on Convention Centers" was designed by the Phoenix Convention Center Marketing and Promotions Division and will be the basis for the 2007 advertising campaign. Additionally, Kevin Hill, Marketing Director for the Phoenix Convention Center, has been recognized with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Arizona State Chapter of HSMAI.

Valley of the Sun United Way, Innovative Campaign Partnership Award

(March 2007) Phoenix was honored at a recognition luncheon for its 2006 Community Service Fund Drive that raised $1.4 million for United Way. The city is one of only eight other organizations in the One Million Dollar Club.

National Parks and Recreation Association, Excellence in Aquatics Awards

(March 2007) The Parks and Recreation Department was recognized at the organization's National Aquatics Conference in Atlanta for demonstrating excellence in planning and managing diversified aquatics services. The department earned the award for cities with more than 500,000 residents, and this is the third time the department has won the award. Read the news release

United Blood Services, Valentines for Life Award

(Feb. 2007) The city was presented six awards for donating 1,387 units of blood in 2006. The specific areas of the city that were recognized for going above and beyond include: the Police Academy, Police Headquarters, Phoenix City Hall, the Aviation Department, Fire Department Administration, and the Phoenix Convention Center.

2006

Greater Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce, Community Advocate of the Year

(Dec. 2006) Aviation Department employee Johnnie Funderburg was recognized and honored as Community Advocate of the Year. Johnnie is the outreach project manager for the Business and Properties area of the airport, and works in the community with various people and businesses that do business with the city.

New York Times, 2006 Librarian Award

(Dec. 2006) Carol Finch, children and teen services coordinator for Phoenix Public Library, was one of the winners of the awards. Finch was among 25 librarians nationwide recognized for outstanding public service and the positive impact they had on their nominators. Each received $2,500 and a commemorative plaque. Read news release

Arizona State Library Association, Rosenzweig Distinguished Service Award

(Nov. 2006) Phoenix City Librarian Toni Garvey was honored with the award, which is given to a library professional who has, over the past 10 years, exhibited effectiveness regionally and statewide in the promotion of libraries and library services. Read the news release

Amateur Softball Association, Award of Excellence

(Nov. 2006) The Parks and Recreation Department won the award for conducting two of the highest-rated national championships in 2006. The city hosted the 2006 ASA Coed Major National Championship and the 18 & under 2006 Girls Western National Championship.

National Association of State Chief Information Officers/Public Technology Institute, Best in Tech Award

(Nov. 2006) The Neighborhood Services Department (NSD) was recognized nationally for use of mobile technology to allow code enforcement inspectors to access databases remotely by using computer laptops and the citywide wireless network. Read the news release

Arizona Business Magazine, Economic Engines of Arizona Award

(Oct. 2006) The Phoenix Biomedical Campus was chosen to receive one of the awards in the "Places" category as an economic development project that demonstrates local, regional and statewide collaboration. The award honors the top people, places, products and services that have made significant contributions to Arizona's economy. Read the news release

Western Maricopa Coalition (WESTMARC), Honorable Mention, Architectural Innovation Award

(Oct. 2006) Palo Verde Library received an honorable mention at the 14th annual “Best of the West” awards presented by the Western Maricopa Coalition (WESTMARC) and the Arizona Republic. The library and adjacent community center were featured in a six page article in the October issue of Architectural Record.

Rocky Mountain Emmy Awards

(Oct. 2006) PHX 11, the city's cable television station, was recognized by industry peers for video projects in the Environmental Program or Special and Public/Current/Community Affairs categories. Read the news release

Federal Aviation Administration, 2006 Air Carrier Airport Safety Award

(July 2006) Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport received the award from the FAA's Western Pacific Airports District Office for its innovative solutions and partnerships that have resulted in enhanced airport safety. Read the news release

Maricopa Association of Governments, 2006 Desert Peak Awards

(June 2006) Two city projects were selected to receive the awards: the TGen/IGC Headquarters project received an award in the Public-Private Partnership category and the Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Project received an award in the Public Partnership category. The prestigious awards are presented to agencies and individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to promoting, recognizing and attaining the ideals of regionalism. Read the news release

Cottage Living Magazine

(June 2006) The Willo neighborhood has been chosen by the magazine as one of the Top Ten Cottage Communities in America. Cottage Living editors targeted metropolitan areas with 100,000 people or more and spent months querying realtors, architects, local and national preservation groups, city officials, neighborhood association leaders and editors at alternative news weeklies.

27th Annual Telly Awards

(June 2006) PHX 11, the city's news and information station, was recognized with ten finalist awards. Read the news release

Metro Magazine

(June 2006) The magazine named Phoenix America’s Hottest Transit Town in its July 2006 issue for its light rail efforts.

TravelSmart Magazine, List of Landmark Libraries

(May 2006) The Burton Barr Central Library was in TravelSmart magazine’s list of 15 New American Landmark Libraries designated as "architectural gems." The article’s mission was to "get our readers to think about going to libraries when traveling as tourists." TravelSmart further stated that libraries "provide much needed services for travelers such as Internet access, cafes, quiet resting spots, and information about local history."

Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Woman of the Year Award

(May 2006) Olga Aros, Deputy Equal Opportunity Department director, received the award for her outstanding work and years of dedication to serving the community for more than 35 years.

National League of Cities, 2005 Cultural Diversity Award

(May 2006) Phoenix was the runner-up for the award, presented by the league's National Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials. Recognized in the population category of more than 400,001, Phoenix was honored for exemplifying how a city can improve and promote cultural diversity in its community. Phoenix is a five-time winner of the award.

Allstate, 2006 America's Best Drivers Report

(May 2006) Allstate named Phoenix as having the safest large-city drivers in the country in their "Allstate America’s Best Drivers Report." Read the news release

National Community Development Association(NCDA), John A. Sasso Award

(May 2006) The Neighborhood Services Department (NSD) was recognized by the NCDA for its April 2006 Community Week activities. The national award recognizes outstanding efforts in raising awareness of the benefits of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, especially during Community Development Week.

Museum Association of Arizona, 2006 Award of Excellence

(May 2006) The Pueblo Grande Museum received the award for performance deemed superior and for exhibiting leadership in the museum community of Arizona. The museum and archaeological park has exhibited great care and sensitivity in its representation of ancient southwestern cultures and their connections to present-day American Indian communities. The museum also strives to develop and maintain partnerships with local tribal communities, and Phoenix’s urban American Indian community.

Arizona School Public Relations Association (ASPRA), Award of Excellence

(April 2006) City Council District 5 Councilman Claude Mattox was honored for his contributions to public education. Read the news release

National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), 2006 Image Awards

(April 2006) Carole Coles Henry, then-acting interim deputy city manager, and Detective Earliest Nelson, Phoenix Police Department, were honored for their positive achievements toward human and civil rights in the community and creating a path for others to follow in the areas of legal issues, community service, education and civil rights. Read news release

Arizona State University/College of Fine Arts, Partner 2005 Award

(March 2006) The university's Katherine K. Herberger College of Fine Arts recognized the Phoenix Office of Arts and Culture for outstanding contributions to the arts, community and education. The education program implemented several initiatives that have used arts and education to bring art communities and schools together. Read the news release

American Disaster Preparedness Foundation (ADPF), Number One Designation

(February 2006) The ADPF named Phoenix number one in the country when it comes to emergency preparedness. ADPF, a Chicago-based, nonprofit public advocacy organization, studied the country’s 30 largest metropolitan areas and judged nine categories in emergency preparedness: technology, management, infrastructure, internal training, equity, public education, general awareness and external support. The purpose of the study was to inform the public on how prepared local governments are.

Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation (RBRC), National Community Recycling Leadership Award

(Jan. 2006) The city's Office of Environmenal Programs received the award for its dedication to recycling rechargeable batteries and cell phones. Read the news release

Risk and Insurance Magazine, Second Safest City Designation

(Jan. 2006) Risk & Insurance magazine and Boston-based catastrophe modeling firm, AIR Worldwide Corp., have identified the Phoenix metro area as the second safest city for businesses in the U.S. The 2005 analysis and ranking of safest cities were determined using AIR’s hurricane, earthquake, severe thunderstorm, winter storm, and terrorism models for the U.S.

2005

Valley of the Sun United Way

(Dec. 2005) The city of Phoenix and its employees were recognized for raising more than $1.3 million during their annual fund drive. Read the news release

Fast Company Magazine, Top Ten List

(Nov. 2005) The magazine named Phoenix one of the top 15 up-and-coming cities for creative people to live, work and play.

National Association of Housing and Redevelopment (NAHRO), Award of Excellence

(Oct. 2005) The Neighborhood Services (NSD)and Housing departments each received recognition, NSD for its South Mountain area revitalization strategy and Housing for a hands-on program designed to help seniors and people with disabilities combat feelings of isolation through computers. Read news release

Arizona School-Age Coalition, 2005 Star of Excellence Award

(Oct. 2005) Phoenix Arts Education Director Jocelyn Hanson was recognized with the award for outstanding public official. Read the news release

National Association of Housing and Redevelopment (NAHRO), Award of Excellence

(Oct. 2005) Phoenix earned recognition for a 750-home housing development, a Neighborhood Resource Center and dozens of new infill homes on formerly blighted, vacant lots in the South Mountain Neighborhood Revitalization area. Read news release

National Policy Research Council, Number One Ranking

(Oct. 2005) The Council ranked Phoenix No. 1 in the nation for new businesses and entrepreneurs. The council, which analyzed data from more than 17 million businesses nationwide, ranked cities on their record for creating new businesses and for adding employees to existing companies over the past 14 years.

United Latino Business Coalition, Services Provider of the Year Award

(Oct. 2005) The coalition honored the Community and Economic Development Department Small Business Division with the award for its small business assistance programs. The programs included the Management Technical Assistance program, the EXPAND equity gap lending program and the Mind Your Business educational seminars. Read the news Release

National League of Cities, Model City Designation

(Oct. 2005) Phoenix was selected as a "model city" for its commitment to improving the lives of low- to moderate-income families by developing initiatives to foster asset building and financial literacy. As part of the honor, Phoenix hosted representatives of the NLC and six cities to showcase the ways in which city leaders can support and/or initiate asset-building initiatives within their own communities. Read news release

City-County Communications and Marketing Association (3CMA), 2005 Award of Excellence

(Sept. 2005) Phoenix received the award in the one-time special programming video category for the Matthew Henson documentary. The award-winning documentary was produced by PHX 11, the city’s cable television station. Read the news release

Valley Forward, Environmental Excellence Awards

(Sept. 2005) Phoenix was honored with nine awards for its outstanding contributions to the environment and quality of life in Phoenix. Read the news release

Entrepreneur Magazine, Best in Country

(Sept. 2005) The magazine named Phoenix the best city in the country for starting a new business. According to the magazine, “Phoenix dominated on the strength of robust growth in new businesses.”

Sister Cities International

(Aug. 2005) The city of Phoenix received three awards from Sister Cities International in recognition of its long-term and comprehensive sister city programs. The Phoenix Sister Cities Commission earned the Best Overall Program Award for a city with a population greater than 500,000, the Innovation Award for Sustainable Development and the National Organization for Disability Advocacy award. Read news release

Arizona Prosecuting Attorney's Advisory Council, Arizona Misdemeanor Prosecutor of the Year

(Aug. 2005) Assistant City Prosecutor Bill Solomon was recognized for his work that has an impact on jury trials across the state. Read news release

CIO Magazine, CIO 100 Award

(Aug. 2005) For the sixth consecutive year, Phoenix was honored with the award, which recognizes companies and organizations around the world that exemplify the highest level of operational and strategic excellence in the use of technology. Read the news release

CIO Magazine, 2005 CIO Ones to Watch Award

(Aug. 2005) Peg Davis, deputy chief information officer in the city’s Information Technology Department, was selected as one of the rising stars of information technology as tomorrow’s technology leaders. Read the news release

26th Annual Telly Awards

(July 2005) PHX11, the city’s news and information station, was recognized with five finalist awards at this year's awards event. Read the news release

Public Technology Institute (PTI), Best in Tech Award

(June 2005) The Neighborhood Services Department (NSD) was recognized by the PTI for its graffiti flash camera project that catches graffiti vandals in the act.

Maryvale U.N.I.T.E., Woman of the Year Award

(May 2005) A Neighborhood Services Department employee, Josie Romero, was recognized by the Maryvale neighborhood association for her work with the Fight Back program in the area. Read the news release

American Society for Public Administration/National Public Academy of Public Administration - National Public Service Award

(April 2005) City Manager Frank Fairbanks was honored with the award, the highest given for distinction in public service. Read news release

Men's Journal, Top 50 List

(April 2005) Phoenix was selected as one of the "50 Best Places to Live" by the publication, which weighed variables from cost of living, and air and water quality to wilderness nearby.

National League of Cities, 2005 Cultural Diversity Award

(April 2005) The city of Phoenix was presented the award by the league's National Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials for its annual International Women’s Day Work Team. As the award winner, Phoenix was honored for setting a strong example of how cities can improve and promote cultural diversity in their communities. Read news release

International Interior Design Association, Interior Design Excellence Awards

(April 2005) Phoenix Public Library’s Desert Broom Branch received three awards from the design association. The association noted that the library’s interior is tailored to the modern library, with a raised flooring system, more than 50 public computers, room for expansion, space dedicated to teens and uses several energy efficient design features. The library also was recognized with the Gold Nugget Grand Award for Best Public/Private Special Use Facility and Sustainable Commercial Non-Residential Project at the 42nd annual Pacific Coast Builders Conference. Read the news release

2004

Greater Phoenix Black Chamber of Commerce, Business of the Year Award

(Dec. 2004) A small business at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport was named Business of the Year by the chamber. Pass the Popcorn, owned by Christopher and Nina Payne, opened two new stores in Terminal 4 as part of the redevelopment of Sky Harbor’s busiest terminal. Read the news release

United Latino Business Coalition, Minority Advocate of the Year

(Dec. 2004) David Cavazos, then-acting Phoenix Aviation Director, was honored with the award for his role advocating on behalf of minority-owned businesses. Read news release

Mayor's Commission on Disability Issues, Architectural Accessibility Award

(Oct. 2004) The Aviation Department received an award for its innovative customer service enhancements for people with disabilities. The installation of adult changing stations is the reason the commission selected Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport for this award. Read news release

MarCom Creative Awards, Platinum Award

(Oct. 2004) The Neighborhood Services and Aviation departments were recognized for outstanding marketing achievements for the Graffiti Busters Program and for the adult changing station at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, respectively. Read the news release

19th Annual National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors (NATOA)

(Oct. 2004) PHX 11, the city's news and information station, was recognized with five awards at this year's event. Read the news release

Maricopa Association of Governments (MAG), Livable Communities Award

(Oct. 2004) Phoenix was recognized for street improvements made along Seventh Avenue, between Camelback and Indian School roads. Read the news release

Digital Government, Best of the Web Award

(Oct. 2004) Phoenix received second-place honors for innovation, Web-based delivery of public services, efficiency, economy and functionality for improved citizen access. Read the news release

American Institute of Architects (AIA), Client Award

(Sept. 2004) The Arizona Chapter of the AIA selected the city of Phoenix for the award for the IGC/TGEN construction project. Read the news release

Valley Forward Environmental Excellence Award, Crescordia Award for Art in Public Places

(Sept. 2004) The new Kyrene Monte Vista Pedestrian Bridge won in the first-place category as an outstanding contribution to the environment and quality of life in the Valley. The innovative bridge cage was designed by Phoenix sculptor Al Price through the Phoenix Office of Arts and Culture Public Art Program. Read the news release

Phoenix Magazine, Best of the Valley Issue

(Aug. 2004) The August "Best of the Valley" issue of the magazine named Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport the Best Public Museum for such exhibits as the 100th Anniversary of Flight and miniature engines. Read the news release

South Phoenix Rising, Individual Award

(Aug. 2004) The neighborhood association group recognized Councilman Michael Johnson for his contribution to the South Phoenix area. South Phoenix Rising was established in 1999 by residents in the South Phoenix area as a neighborhood Fight Back to prevent crime and enhance social initiatives. Read the news release

National Community Development Association (NCDA), Audrey Nelson Community Development Achievement Award

(June 2004) The Neighborhood Services Department received recognition for its redevelopment accomplishments achieved in the New North Town-Village Center Neighborhood Initiative Area. Read news release

25th Annual Telly Awards, Creative Achievement

(June 2004) The city's youth and education channel, know99, received 13 awards at this year's event. The majority of the awards went to student reporters from the Phoenix Youth and Education Commission. Read the news release

Leadership West, Alumnus of the Year Award

(June 2004) City Council District 5 Councilman Claude Mattox, a graduate of the organization's yearlong leadership training program, was honored for his community-building activities in the west Valley. Read the news release

Greater Phoenix Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, Community Ally Award

(May 2004) The chamber presented the award to the Phoenix Public Library at its annual awards dinner. The library shared the award with another organization, No Longer Silent - Clergy for Justice. Read the news release

Beacon Awards, Best Training Video

(March 2004) PHX 11, the city's government access channel, was awarded this year's award for "The SOAR Program," about airport security for airport-based employees. Read the news release

Arizona City/County Management Association, John J. DeBolske Professional Excellence Award

(March 2004) City Manager Frank Fairbanks was recognized with the prestigious award by more than 188 management peers for his exceptional ability to promote organizational innovation, create a risk-taking environment and effectively measure results through the successful management of more than 13,000 city employees. Read news Release

Arizona Business Magazine, Most Outstanding Meeting and Convention Facility Award

(Feb. 2004) The Phoenix Convention Center was recognized by its peers and the Arizona business community, as published in the 2004 issue of "Ranking Arizona - The Best of Arizona Business." This was the seventh year in a row Phoenix Convention Center has won this prestigious award. Read the news release

National Association of Housing and Redevelopment (NAHRO), National Award of Merit

(Jan. 2004) The Neighborhood Services Department was recognized for its exemplary use of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG,) HOME, and other community development funds to address the needs of neighborhoods and families. Read news release

Library Journal, Librarian of the Year

(Jan. 2004) City Librarian Toni Garvey received the honor for outstanding achievement and accomplishments including free access to information, the enhancement and expansion of library services, strengthening the library's role in the community and the encouragement of reading through public programs. Read the news release

New York Times, 2003 Librarian Award

(Jan. 2004) Phoenix librarian Kathleen Le Fevre Birtciel was one of 27 recipients of the newspaper's award, for her outstanding work as partner and leader in making the community a vibrant and self-improving place to live, work and play. Read the news release

Valley Forward, Environmental Excellence

(Sept. 2004) This year's program recognized two city of Phoenix Engineering and Architectural Services (EAS) projects. The EEA program honors significant contributions to the environment in 20 categories. Read the news release

2000

Governing Magazine, Best Run City in the U.S.

(Jan. 2000) Once again, Phoenix has been named the best-run city in the country. After a year long, in-depth study of management efficiency among the nation's 35 largest urban centers, Phoenix is the only city to earn an overall grade of "A." Read news release and USA Today article(1 MB PDF)¹

1993

Carl Bertelsmann Prize

Phoenix was selected as the 1993 winner of Germany's Carl Bertelsmann Prize for being the best run city-government in the world after a months-long search for models of modern, efficient municipal governments. Sharing the award with Phoenix was Christchurch, New Zealand. Read more

1989

National Civic League, All-America City

The city of Phoenix has competed for and won this award four times - in 1950, 1958, 1979 and 1989. No other city has captured this prize more frequently than has Phoenix. Read more ¹