The Bloomington Creative Placemaking program was honored Nov. 24 with the American Planning Association Minnesota chapter's Advancing Diversity and Social Change Award, city and APA representatives told the City Council.

Mike Palermo, president of APA Minnesota, said the award is the result of a competitive, externally reviewed nomination process aimed at reducing bias. "It's the Advancing Diversity and Social Change Award," Palermo said, noting the state chapter uses an out-of-state review to vet nominees. Alejandra Plinca, Bloomington's director of Creative Placemaking, told the council the award validates the program's efforts to lift diverse perspectives and strengthen belonging across the city.

Plinca and Commissioner Cote highlighted the program's long-running community outreach, which began with demonstration projects in the South Loop and expanded to a citywide plan. City staff and consultants Forecast Public Art, and consultant lead Teresa Sweetland, were acknowledged for their roles in shaping the work. Commissioner Cote singled out Hante, the Healing Bridge Mural and Native Plant Garden at the Cedar Avenue Bridge, as an example of local artists' work and the project's cultural connections.

City leaders said the award aligns with Bloomington's strategic priority to build a connected, welcoming community and that volunteers and artists have been central to the program's development since 2016. No formal council action was required; the presentation was primarily ceremonial.

The Creative Placemaking team includes Alejandra Plinca (director), creative placemaking specialist Catherine Murray and volunteer commissioners; Forecast Public Art and artists such as Sandy Spieler and cultural educator Tara Perron were named as collaborators. The recognition is expected to support continued arts and cultural investments in Bloomington.