Back in the big leagues? Kinston competes again for All-America City crown
The City of Kinston has been selected as one of 20 finalists for the 2025 All-America City Award, a prestigious national honor presented annually by the National Civic League. The award recognizes communities across the country for outstanding civic innovation, community collaboration, and efforts to build inclusive, sustainable futures.
The theme of this year’s competition—“Strengthening Environmental Sustainability through Inclusive Community Engagement”—highlights local initiatives that promote climate resilience, environmental stewardship, and equitable development.
Councilmember Chris Suggs announced the city’s finalist status during a recent City Council meeting, calling it “a pretty big deal” for the community.
“This award speaks to the incredible work happening across Kinston,” Suggs said. “We’re one of only 20 finalists out of dozens of applications from cities, towns, and villages across the country. The National Civic League recognized Kinston for its leadership in climate resilience, neighborhood revitalization, and grassroots engagement.”
Kinston previously earned the All-America City title in 1988 and again in 2009. This year, the city’s application highlighted three major community development projects:
Emma Webb Park Master Plan: A comprehensive redesign of one of Kinston’s oldest parks, launched in 2021, focused on flood resilience and inclusive design through community input.
East Kinston Neighborhood Hub and Equitable Development Plan: A youth-led revitalization effort transforming historically underinvested neighborhoods through resident-driven planning and redevelopment.
Downtown Kinston Mural Program: A public art initiative launched between 2019 and 2022 that engaged artists and community members to celebrate local culture and attract foot traffic to the city center.
“These are examples of what’s possible when residents, especially our youth, are given the tools and opportunities to lead,” Suggs said. “Our application shows that Kinston is not just building infrastructure—it’s building community.”
The city’s application was submitted in partnership with organizations such as Kinston Teens, the American Flood Coalition, and multiple local stakeholders. The projects reflect years of investment in public-private partnerships and grassroots mobilization aimed at creating a more equitable Kinston.
Mayor Pro Tem Antonio Hardy commended the collective effort: “Thank you to Councilmember Suggs and to everyone who worked hard on this application.”
Finalists will gather in June in Denver, Colorado, to present their initiatives before a national panel. Ten winners will be chosen from among the 20 finalist communities.
“We’re hopeful,” Suggs said. “This is a testament to regular citizens doing the work—people who are committed to improving Kinston.”
If successful, Kinston will join the ranks of the 2025 All-America City winners and bring the award home for the third time in its history.
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