Montgomery Named Finalist for 2026 All‑America City Award

Montgomery has been selected as one of 25 finalists for the 2026 All-America City Award, rising to the top from hundreds of applications nationwide. This marks the first time since 2014 that the City has earned a spot among the finalists.

This year's theme, America at 250: Strengthening Civic Health and Building Trust, recognizes communities that are creatively engaging residents to build stronger connections, deepen civic participation, and foster trust and belonging. Montgomery's application reflects the City's intentional efforts to ensure residents have meaningful opportunities to help shape the future of their community.

"Montgomery's selection as a finalist is a testament to the spirit of our people and the partnerships that fuel our progress," said Mayor Steven Reed. "We are building a Montgomery where trust, engagement, and opportunity flow to every neighborhood; and this recognition affirms that our community-driven approach is working. I am grateful for everyone who contributed to our application and for the shared commitment to strengthening civic health across our city."

Doug Linkhart, President of the National Civic League, emphasized the importance of this year's theme.

"This year's All-America City finalists remind us that the strength of democracy depends on engaged residents who are invested in shaping the future of the places they call home," Linkhart said. "As the nation marks 250 years since its founding, these communities are proving that civic health is improved block by block, through trust, belonging, and the collective power of people working together."

The National Civic League is expected to publicly announce all finalists next week as notifications continue. As part of the second stage of the competition, each finalist community will send a delegation to Denver, Colorado, from June 26-28, 2026, to present and compete alongside fellow finalists. Travel expenses are not covered by the National Civic League.

Montgomery joins an impressive group of cities recognized for their commitment to civic health and community trust. The 2026 finalists are:

• Bowling Green-Warren County, Kentucky
• Chelsea, Massachusetts
• Conway, South Carolina
• Franklin, Tennessee
• Grand Island, Nebraska
• Harlingen, Texas
• Huntsville, Alabama
• Jenks, Oklahoma
• Monrovia, California
• Montgomery, Alabama
• Morrisville, North Carolina
• Norfolk, Virginia
• North Charleston, South Carolina
• Opa-locka, Florida
• River Forest, Illinois
• Riviera Beach, Florida
• Roanoke, Virginia
• Stow, Ohio
• Wichita, Kansas
• Woodburn, Oregon

To explore previous All-America City Award recipients, visit:
https://www.nationalcivicleague.org/america-city-award/past-winners/