Stuart, Florida designated as
2008 "Most Beautiful City" in America
Population 15,001 to 25,000

On October 4th, 2008, the City of Stuart, Florida was awarded the title of "Most Beautiful City" in America with a population of 15,001 to 25,000 from the America In Bloom organization. "America In Bloom" (AIB) is an annual, nationwide beautification campaign among cities of similar population size. Stuart is the first coastal community and only the second Florida city to enter the AIB campaign.

"Stuart In Bloom" (SIB), the first local campaign for this AIB award, was led by local volunteers and supported by local residents, businesses, government and organizations. On April 28th and 29th of 2008, America In Bloom judges spent two days touring the City evaluating Stuart for awards in the eight categories of Tidiness, Environmental Awareness, Community Involvement, Heritage Preservation, Urban Forestry, Landscaped Areas, Floral Displays and Turf & Groundcovers.

The judges, who are horticulture professionals from other parts of the nation, and dedicated to community involvement and improvement programs, volunteered their time, expertise and experience in evaluating the City of Stuart in the eight categories listed above. And, from that evaluation, Stuart was not only awarded the top prize of "Most Beautiful City" in America but also received an "Honorable Recognition" award in the category of Environmental Awareness.