Riviera Beach has earned a significant national recognition by becoming one of just 10 communities across the United States selected to receive the 2026 All-America City Award from the National Civic League. The city stands alone as the only Florida community honored with this distinction this year. The prestigious award recognizes cities that successfully bring together residents, local government, businesses and organizations to address community challenges and create meaningful change. City leaders presented Riviera Beach's accomplishments at the National Civic League conference in Denver, where judges announced the city as a first-time award winner.
Mayor Douglas Lawson expressed pride in the recognition, stating "Little old Riviera Beach is one of the biggest, brightest, shining stars." He credited the award to years of dedicated work aimed at revitalizing the city and improving residents' quality of life. "They're seeing the changes; they're seeing the revitalization and the reimagining of Riviera Beach that we set out so many years to do," Lawson said. City leaders emphasize that the award reflects their commitment to strengthening civic health, building trust between residents and government, and ensuring community members have a direct voice in shaping the city's future.
The city's application highlighted several programs designed to increase civic participation. The Riviera Beach Youth Council engages high school students in civic leadership and advocacy, while the Citizens Leadership Academy provides civic education with a 98 percent completion rate. The Neighborhood Reclaim Home Rehabilitation Program offers mini-grants to help longtime homeowners make necessary repairs to their properties. Councilwoman KaShamba Miller-Anderson credited residents for making the achievement possible. "This award is a tribute to the heart and determination of our residents," Miller-Anderson said. "Every event we host, every project we complete, and every challenge we overcome happens because our community shows up for one another."
The All-America City Award, presented annually since 1949, ranks among the nation's most respected civic honors. City officials say the designation sends a powerful message that Riviera Beach is a community where collaboration produces results and residents actively shape the city's direction. The award also positions Riviera Beach for future opportunities and continued growth. Other cities receiving the 2026 award include Chelsea, Massachusetts; Franklin, Tennessee; Harlingen, Texas; Montgomery, Alabama; Morrisville, North Carolina; Norfolk, Virginia; North Charleston, South Carolina; Roanoke, Virginia; and Woodburn, Oregon.