The cities of Aberdeen and Hoquiam were named as winners of a 2017 Smart Communities Award by Gov. Jay Inslee Tuesday.

The cities’ joint work on the TimberWorks Resiliency and Restoration Master Plan for flood prevention earned them the honor. According to a release from the State Department of Commerce, the plan “is a strong roadmap for reducing the risk of flooding in their communities. Protecting properties from water damage, reducing the financial costs of flooding and enhancing the physical character of the community are crucial to economic and community development.”

The awards recognize achievements by local leaders who promote smart growth planning and projects that contribute to thriving communities, a prosperous economy and sustainable infrastructure in the state.

“These projects help create and sustain thriving communities. They facilitate the growth of local economies by creating ‘quality of place’ that can help retain and attract business and broaden the economic growth around the state,” said Gov. Inslee.

The City of Hoquiam was also listed under the Governor’s “notable 2017 submittals” for its Hoquiam Waterfront Boat Launch and Moorage Project. That project, featuring a public boat launch and moorage floats at the 9th and Levee Street launch was christened early in May of last year.