Edenton was recently named one of North Carolina’s Great Places by the NC Chapter of the American Planning Association. Representatives from the NC APA presented MayorRoland Vaughanwith the NC Great Places Award. It was a very uplifting and positive award presentation.

Destination Downtown Edenton submitted the application and made a strong impression on the evaluators. The competition netted more than 75 nominations from across the State for great main streets. In reviewing the submissions the panel of experts felt thatBroad Streetin Edenton really stood out as a main street that is attractive, interesting and alive. They were particularly impressed with the combination of historic architecture, the beautiful setting and the tremendous vitality that our downtown has in providing a dynamic central gathering place that residents and visitors enjoy.

The presenters reminded us that creating a successful main street isn’t something that happens overnight. It takes time to develop a vision, to identify the community’s assets and to find the right opportunities to preserve and improve the area. The presenters noted that it often requires the development of partnerships to implement plans and fund projects.

Joe Heard, the President of the NC APA noted that successful main streets require the courage of individual property owners and entrepreneurs to invest in making main street such an attractive destination. Mayor Vaughan thanked the Chapter for recognizing and placing value on good strong planning, and talked about the Town Council’s commitment to professional planning and its support of Destination Downtown Edenton.