San Jose - A program developed by the City of San Jose has received a national honor. The National League of Cities Municipal Excellence Award has been presented for San Jose's Strong Neighborhoods Initiative.
The Strong Neighborhoods Initiative is a collaborative to improve blight-ridden areas and build strong community relationships. The program beat out 173 other programs across the nation.
Redevelopment Agency Executive Director Harry Mavrogenes says this award really says a lot about the City of San Jose. The city is getting noticed for being forward-looking, trying to deal with major issues that affect its citizens. The City has invested $95 million in the development of neighborhoods over the last eight years and have turned them around significantly. 150 projects have been completed in 19 of the City's neediest neighborhoods since 2000.
In addition to the recognition and bragging rights, San Jose will also receive a $2,000 to be donated to a local non profit.
