RALEIGH – The N.C. Department of Commerce announced today that a new video and website on urban design and the importance of creating walkable communities, Designing Better Places, is available for viewing and download on the Commerce website at www.designingbetterplaces.com

Designing Better Places showcases numerous communities from across North Carolina that are developing public spaces where residents and visitors feel at ease.  The website and video provide examples of basic design principles and building streets that work for everyone.
 
“The video and other information on the website will be helpful tools for communities and individuals working to create more vibrant and inviting places,” said N.C. Commerce Secretary Sharon Decker. “This is important for our economic development, health, and changing demographics.”

An earlier version of the video won the 2005 Award for Excellence from the Small Town & Rural Planning Division of the American Planning Association.