Families looking to relocate to a city that stresses beautification and sustainability might want to consider the North Texas town of Allen, which recently won a prestigious state award recognizing its efforts on behalf of the environment.July, the city’s Keep Allen Beautiful organization was awarded Keep Texas Beautiful’s Sustained Excellence Awardand was recognized as a Keep Texas Beautiful Gold Star Affiliate for the ninth consecutive year. Keep Allen Beautiful is an organization dedicated to developing and fostering programs that make Allen a cleaner, healthier and more attractive city.

Allen also won the 2012 Keep Texas Beautiful Governor’s Community Achievement award, awarded to 10 cities and towns for outstanding community improvement. The award is one of the most coveted annual environmental and community improvement honors in Texas. The winners shared $2 million in landscape funding from the Texas Department of Transportation. Of this, Allen received $270,000 for a landscaping project along a local right-of-way.

Families looking for homes for sale in Allen, TX, might be happy that city’s litter prevention and cleanup campaign was cited as among the reasons the city received the award. Clean and beautiful streets compliment the many Allen luxury homes on the market.

Keep Allen Beautiful also oversees several beautification projects at local parks, such as the installation of native and drought-tolerant plants at the town’s veteran’s memorial.

“Allen’s community is made up of vibrant, energetic and forward-thinking people,” said Donna Kliewer, Waste Services Manager and Keep Allen Beautiful staff liaison. “This certainly came to light with the GCAA win. It is a spotlight on the community and their involvement in making Allen one of the shining stars in Texas. It is recognition of the hours and efforts put forth by everyone to make Allen the best place in Texas to live, work and play.”

The leafy green canopy gracing the streets and Allen, Texas, real estate has increased by hundreds thanks to efforts of the Trees for Allen program and Arbor Day activities.

The Allen school district, too, is helping improve the town’s sustainability by promoting recycling in the classrooms, offices, and cafeterias of all 21 school campuses.

Allen City Television’s Emmy-award-winning “Recycle Bin” music video are gaining national popularity, as schools around the country have started using the catchy tune and video as part of their recycling program.