FORT PIERCE - The Treasure Coast Chapter of the American Institute of Architects recently presented St. Lucie County Commissioner Doug Coward with a 2007 AIA Treasure Coast Distinguished Award for his work with the "Towns, Villages and Countryside" plan.

The local American Institute of Architects awarded Coward with the "Distinguished Public Official Supporting the Profession Award" for 2007.

"Commissioner Doug Coward received this award for his efforts in the development and implementation of the St. Lucie County "Towns, Villages, and Countryside Land Development Standards." The AIA Treasure Coast commends Commissioner Coward for his vision and leadership resulting in an outstanding set of guidelines that result in a well-planned sustainable future for St Lucie County," said Ronald Johnson, AIA executive director.

"I am pleased to have been apart of this community visioning process that raised the bar for public participation and allowed local residents to plan the future of St. Lucie County," said Commissioner Coward. "I am honored to receive the award and I wish to thank all of the many participants who made this innovative land planning project possible."

The proposed "Towns, Villages and Countryside" plan is a new way to manage growth in St. Lucie County. While the process is still underway, St. Lucie County, with help from the Treasure Coast Regional Planning Council, has held more than 135 public meetings and workshops on the development plan.

The AIA Treasure Coast Chapter of the American Institute of Architects servers Indian River, St. Lucie, and Martin counties.