Sioux Falls has been named one of nine national finalist communities in the 2007 Accessible America competition sponsored by the National Organization on Disability.

This program recognizes and promotes progress toward comprehensive accessibility and opportunity in U.S. cities and towns. Judges look for cities that demonstrate an exceptional commitment to offering citizens with disabilities full and equal opportunities to participate in the life of their community, including access to jobs, education, religious worship, voting, transportation, housing, emergency preparedness, and the entire range of social, recreational, cultural, and sports activities.

“All communities that entered this contest are recognized leaders because they have made a serious commitment to serving residents who have disabilities,” said NOD President Michael R. Deland. “Population trends point to an increase in the number of people with disabilities who will surely look to community resources that support their independence and dignity.”

Sioux Falls was also named a finalist in 2006.

“I’m honored that for the second year in a row our efforts to make our city more accessible for our disabled residents have been nationally recognized,” Mayor Dave Munson said. “I’m very proud of the work we do to make sure all our citizens can take advantage of everything Sioux Falls has to offer.”

The other finalists are Alexandria, Virginia; Bloomington, Indiana; Columbus, Georgia; Hattiesburg, Mississippi; Houston, Texas; Indianapolis, Indiana; Miami-Dade County, Florida; and New Haven, Connecticut.

The winner will be announced January 7, 2008, and will receive a $25,000 cash prize to encourage further advancement of disability-related efforts.