Delray Beach Downtown Development Authority named recipient of two 2014 Downtown Merit Awards by the International Downtown Association for “The Practical Guide for Downtown Businesses” and “Delray’s Fabulous Fashion Week”

For Immediate Release:
(Washington D.C.) August 21, 2014--- During its 60th Anniversary Conference and Tradeshow in September, the International Downtown Association will recognize the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) with two Downtown Merit Awards for its work and initiatives related to “The Practical Guide for Downtown Businesses” and the “Delray’s Fabulous Fashion Week.”

The Practical Guide for Downtown Businesses project was among 10 qualified entries in the category of Downtown Leadership and Management This category features comprehensive and unique organizational approaches, projects, or programs that improved the effectiveness of downtown management organizations.

“Delray’s Fabulous Fashion Week” was among 17 qualified entries in the Events and Programming category. Submitted projects and initiatives in this category come from those organizations, such as the DDA, that are working to further their city centers by completing the following:
• Focused on programs and events that improved the image and vitality of downtown with events that promote downtown and attract visitors.
• Delivering projects that communicate the vision, mission, function, and achievements of the downtown or business district association.

“The Delray Beach DDA is honored to have been selected as a IDA International Award winner and recognize that our partners, the Downtown businesses, volunteers and board members were all a part of making these projects such a huge success,” expresses Marjorie Ferrer, Executive Director, Downtown Development Authority.

“The DDA’s projects received the IDA Merit Awards for delivering excellence in downtown management”, said David Downey, IDA President and CEO. “Each year the IDA Awards Jury recognizes organizations that utilize best practices in our industry. Both the Practical Guide for Downtown Businesses” and Delray’s Fabulous Fashion Week are shining examples of excellent downtown management delivering real value to the city.”

The Washington, D.C. based International Downtown Association (IDA) is a champion for vital and livable urban centers and strives to inform, influence, and inspire downtown leaders and advocates. With 500 members and thousands of friends, IDA is a guiding force in creating healthy and dynamic centers that anchor the well-being of towns, cities, and regions.

The Delray Beach Downtown Development Authority is the advocacy and management organization representing the interests of property owners in Downtown Delray Beach and is a proud member of the International Downtown Association.