The City of Woodstock has been celebrated with two distinguished accolades from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC): the 2024 Excellence in Economic Development Gold Award and the coveted Best in Show Award. These prestigious honors were granted for the city’s remarkable Old Courthouse Center Rehabilitation Project, particularly recognized in the Innovative Financing category for communities with populations between 25,000 and 200,000 residents.

 

Outstanding Achievement in Economic Development

The Best in Show Award is regarded as the pinnacle of the IEDC’s Excellence in Economic Development Awards program, highlighting that Woodstock’s project excelled beyond all others, regardless of the scope, budget, or jurisdiction size. By receiving this award, the City of Woodstock demonstrated its leadership and commitment to innovation in economic development, surpassing competitors from across the United States.

Woodstock Award

Celebration at IEDC’s Annual Conference

Paul Christensen, Executive Director of Strategy and Planning, and Darrell Moore, City Planner, represented the City of Woodstock at the IEDC’s Annual Conference, which took place in Denver, CO, from September 15-18. During the event, they accepted the awards on behalf of the city, which serves as a testament to the successful collaboration and strategic vision that made the Old Courthouse Center Rehabilitation Project possible.

 

A Statement from IEDC Leadership

Nathan Ohle, President and CEO of IEDC, commended the project, saying, “The City of Woodstock is elevating the standard for excellence in economic development with its Old Courthouse Center Rehabilitation project. This award is a testament to the City’s dedication to its residents and community at large. It serves as a great example for other communities and economic development organizations.”

Kevin Kramer, Chair of IEDC’s Excellence in Economic Development Awards Advisory Committee, added, “We are absolutely thrilled to announce this year’s award winners. These exceptional projects showcase remarkable dedication and ingenuity within the field. The City of Woodstock’s contributions will leave a lasting impact and demonstrate its commitment to creating positive change for its residents.”

Woodstock City Council

Transformative Impact of the Old Courthouse Center Project

The Old Courthouse Center Rehabilitation Project is a standout example of transformative economic development. It not only revitalized a historic building but also served as a model for other communities aiming to blend innovative financing with impactful urban renewal efforts. This endeavor has significantly contributed to Woodstock’s economic vibrancy, creating opportunities for growth and development within the city.

Reflecting on the achievement, Paul Christensen remarked, “Winning the Best in Show Award is a tremendous honor, especially considering the level of competition from other innovative projects across the country. It’s an incredible acknowledgment of our team’s hard work, and it underscores the transformative power that a project like the Old Courthouse Center can have on a community.”

 

About the International Economic Development Council (IEDC)

The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) is the largest organization of its kind, serving over 4,300 members worldwide. It is dedicated to promoting economic well-being and quality of life through various development practices that include creating jobs, enhancing wealth, and fostering vibrant communities. The IEDC represents a diverse membership ranging from public-private partnerships to chambers of commerce, universities, and local governments, all working to improve economic stability and quality of life.

To learn more about IEDC, visit www.iedconline.org.

 

Looking Forward: Woodstock’s Future in Economic Development

These awards affirm Woodstock’s position as a leader in economic development and reflect its ongoing commitment to enhancing the quality of life for its residents. With recognition from such a reputable organization, the city continues to set benchmarks for excellence in community-driven projects. Woodstock’s success story with the Old Courthouse Center Rehabilitation Project is sure to inspire other communities to pursue innovative solutions for economic growth.

Learn more about the Woodstock Old Courthouse Center.