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 DiFilippo, and George Asimos, along with Chester County Planning Commission executive director Matt Edmond and assistant director Carol Stauffer, presented the awards.

Among the honorees was Barbara Cohen, winner of the Lifetime Achievement Award. Cohen was recognized for her many contributions to the Phoenixville community, including the restoration of the Foundry Building and the historic Colonial Theater, as well as 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 received the Citizen Planner Award. He 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 was given the Innovative Plan Award. The municipality'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.

The Exceptional Project and Organization Award went to the City of Coatesville and Natural Lands for phases one and two of the Ash Park revitalization. Through a long-standing partnership, the revitalization included expanding recreational opportunities, strengthening the neighborhood surrounding the park, and incorporating natural resource protection into public spaces.

The Hankin Group and RGS Associates received the Development Excellence Award for Keva Flats. The recipients were recognized for demonstrating how thoughtful development can support responsible growth while protecting natural and historic resources. The project included a 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.