Dedham is finalist for All America City award

Dedham is among 26 finalists for 10 All-America City awards that will be announced this week in Kansas City.

Dedham, the only finalist from New England this year, cited in its application a number of civic projects and accomplishments, including the work among municipal officials and the business community to revitalize Dedham Square.

The awards, presented annually by the National Civic League since 1949, are based on civic accomplishments in areas including job creation, affordable housing, improving education, and engaging youth. Finalists make the case for their achievements before a national jury that includes business and nonprofit leaders, as well as government experts.

“Dedham has a great story to tell and now we have an opportunity to tell it to the rest of the country,” Town Administrator Bill Keegan said this spring, after the town qualified as a finalist. “This is a rare opportunity, and we intend to make the most of it.”

Somerville is the most recent Massachusetts community to win the award, in 2009. Barnstable achieved the designation in 2007.