Municipal Authorities are a success story that needs to be told.
Each day, authorities implement innovative solutions to meet complex challenges, create opportunities for growth and enhancement, initiate solutions and adapt to changing conditions, and provide services to meet the basic human needs of Pennsylvania residents.
The Municipal Authority Community Engagement Award is given annually to PMAA member authorities who are going above and beyond to effectively communicate the value of their authority to the community while providing exceptional service. These authorities use good management practices, along with innovative approaches to challenges, to demonstrate a comprehensive approach to community engagement.
Click here for the 2026 February issue of The Authority featuring project details of the 2025 award winners, starting on page 17.
Click here for an overview of projects of the 2025 award winners.
Click here for a list of all past winners.
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2026 Community Engagement Award
Now in its fourth year, this award has experienced remarkable growth and expansion — both in the number of applicants and in the breadth and ingenuity of projects submitted. The award is open to all types of authorities, and past recipients have represented a diverse range of projects, including water, wastewater, solid waste management, stormwater, emergency medical services, and rail authorities.
This year marks the first time we have partnered with endorsed program member PennBid, whose platform is powering the application and judging processes. We extend our sincere gratitude to Freddy Lutz and the PennBid team for their efforts in streamlining and enhancing the experience for both applicants and judges alike.
Submissions must consist of projects completed from January 1, 2025 through May 31, 2026. Application deadline is June 1, 2026.
Eligibility criteria and application - review this first for all the details prior to submitting an application.
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Submission Instructions
New this year - the opportunity to submit is being handled through a private electronic process which requires access before completing the application. Please contact Jennifer Case at case@municipalauthorities.org to be granted access to the PennBid portal where applications will be submitted for this year's awards.