Allegany County Press Release - Belfast Comprehensive Plan Wins Award

 

In the first picture Stacy Beardsley Deputy Director and Kier Dirlam Director of Allegany County Planning at the awards ceremony held in Buffalo

In the second picture the Comprehensive Plan Committee members from Belfast with the award.

In the third picture the Comprehensive Plan Committee and the Town of Belfast Board with the award.

Belmont, NY — The Town of Belfast Comprehensive Plan (2024) has been awarded the 2025 Outstanding Planning Award – Director’s Choice by the Western New York Section of the New York Upstate Chapter of the American Planning Association (APA NY Upstate).

 

This prestigious award recognizes a planning initiative that reflects the highest standards of professional excellence while embracing the core values of innovation, collaboration, and community-driven vision. The Belfast Comprehensive Plan stood out for its exceptional ability to unite local voices, address critical needs, and develop a forward-thinking strategy—despite limited resources.

 The plan was developed through a partnership between the Town of Belfast and the Allegany County Office of Planning, with a strong emphasis on community participation. The plan reflects a year-long effort to gather input from residents, local leaders, and community organizations. Through public workshops, surveys, and local interviews, the final plan offers a clear vision for economic development, land use, infrastructure, and quality of life in Belfast.

 

In announcing the award, the selection committee noted:  “Your plan’s collaborative vision, steadfast community engagement, and innovative approach despite limited resources demonstrate what is possible when community members unite to create a better future for themselves and generations to come. This work truly represents the very best our industry has to offer.”

 

The Belfast Comprehensive Plan was recognized for its resilience and creativity in the face of challenges, and for serving as a model of what can be achieved in small, rural communities through inclusive, grassroots-driven planning.

 

The award was accepted on behalf of the Allegany County Office of Planning and the Town of Belfast by Kier Dirlam, Director, and Stacy Beardsley, Deputy Director, during the 2025 Western New York APA Section Annual Meeting and Awards Ceremony held on May 14 at Resurgence Brewing Company in Buffalo, NY.