National Award Honors Construction Projects Built for the Public Good across Nine Categories
Chicago, IL - National infrastructure builder F.H. Paschen named the winners of the 2026 Paschen Prize for Public Progress. This national award celebrates the infrastructure and construction projects that improve how Americans live, move, learn, and gather.
This year’s ten (10) winners span nine (9) categories and represent communities ranging from the Great Lakes to the Mid-Atlantic to the South.
"These ten award-winning public-purpose projects shape how we live, work and connect," said Jim Blair, CEO of F.H. Paschen. "With the 2026 Paschen Prize, we recognize the builders, leaders and communities who made these projects possible."
The winning projects were selected by an industry panel for their impact on public life, ranging from new schools and parks to vital water systems, healthcare facilities, housing and transit upgrades.
“These awards focus on something that F.H. Paschen is committed to: the powerful idea of “Progress”, said Tom Cross, Chief Growth Officer of F.H. Paschen. “Progress means a community is moving forward. This year’s winners are incredible examples of how the people and teams behind public-purpose construction projects are improving the lives of Americans in communities all across the country.”
The 2026 Paschen Prize For Public Progress Winners
Civic Building Project of the Year
The best project from Municipalities, Counties, Townships, States, and special districts - East Lansing Meridian Water and Sewer Authority (ELMWSA) 2M Gallon Water Storage Tank
Education Construction Project of the Year
The best project from Early Education, K-12, higher education or career services builds or renovations - Valley View SD 365U Debbie Sykora Early Childhood Center
Parks and Recreation Project of the Year
The best project(s) from Parks, Trails, Playgrounds, Community Centers and Athletic Facilities - Buffalo Grove Park District Rylko Skate Park (Co-Winner) and Mundelein Park & Recreation District Kracklauer Park (Co-Winner)
Transit or Mobility Improvement Project
The best project from Rail, Terminals, Bike Lanes, Pedestrian Bridges - Charlottesville Area Transit Bus Shelter
Healthcare Project of the Year
The best project from health care, hospitals, laboratory and medical facilities - University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center Sprague Building
Community Impact Project of the Year
The best project that demonstrably improved quality of life or public service - Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority Olde Cedar Housing
Excellence in Sustainable Design
The best project that utilized Green building techniques, LEED, environmental - DFW International Airport American Airlines back-of-house Bathroom Renovation
Public Safety Project of the Year
The best project from Police, Fire, Courts or Emergency Management Facilities - Liberty Dayton Regional Medical Center Central Nurses’ Station
Historic Preservation & Adaptive Re-use Project of the Year
The best project that featured renovation of historic spaces with contemporary utility - McLean County Community Center Old Firehouse Center (OFC)
The 2026 Paschen Prize for Public Progress Award shortlist finalists were named in December 2025. The 2027 Paschen Prize for Public Progress Award Nomination process will open in Fall of 2026.
For more information on the Paschen Prize can be found here.
.png)
