Chester County Honors Community Contributions at Citizen Planner Awards Reception

Posted October 19, 2026

The 2026 Citizen Planner Awards, presented by Chester County 2020 and the Chester County Planning Commission on Oct. 15, recognized outstanding citizen leadership, innovative planning, and collaborative projects helping to shape Chester County's future. Highlighting contributions to community revitalization, sustainability, and responsible development, the awards returned for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Chester County 2020 Board Members Dottie Ives-Dewey, Judy DiFiippo, and George Asimos, along with Chester County Planning Commission Executive Director Matt Edmond and Assistant Director Carol Stauffer, presented the awards.

The honorees included:

Barbara Cohen
Lifetime Achievement Award

Barbara Cohen was recognized for her many contributions to the Phoenixville community, including the restoration of the Foundry Building, the historic Colonial Theater, the Phoenixville Mural Project, and Renaissance Park. Originally selected for the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2020, Cohen received the honor six years later.

Michael Bontrager
Citizen Planner Award

Michael Bontrager was recognized for his impact on the Kennett area and southern Chester County through collaborative leadership, thoughtful investment, and a commitment to strengthening the community, particularly as the founder of Square Roots Collective.

Caln Township: Sustainability Task Force Recommendations
Innovative Plan Award

Caln Township's sustainability report was recognized for combining citizen leadership with clear, measurable actions that advance the goals of Landscapes3 and provide a replicable model for municipalities working to balance growth with long-term resilience.

Ash Park Revitalization Phases 1 and 2: City of Coatesville and Natural Lands
Exceptional Project and Organization Award

The City of Coatesville and Natural Lands were honored for revitalizing Ash Park through a longstanding partnership that expanded recreational opportunities, strengthened the surrounding neighborhood, and incorporated natural resource protection into public spaces.

Keva Flats: Hankin Group and RGS Associates
Development Excellence Award

Keva Flats was recognized for demonstrating how thoughtful development can support responsible growth while protecting natural and historic resources. The project included the county's first floodplain restoration, along with the restoration and adaptive reuse of a historic cottage and barn dating to 1799.

The 2026 honorees reflect the many ways residents, organizations, businesses, and municipalities can contribute to Chester County's future. Chester County 2020 and the Chester County Planning Commission thank the event's sponsors, honorees, and nominators for their contributions to the awards program.