By Samantha Smith

Meeting scenic standards for roadways and public spaces has earned Buda the Texas Scenic City “Gold” certification level once again from the non-profit organization Scenic Texas. 

According to a Buda press release, the city was originally certified as a Scenic City in 2011 and was required to apply for re-certification five years later.

According to a press release from the Scenic Texas Organization, the Scenic City certification recognizes cities that are “committed to high quality scenic standards for public roadways and public spaces.” 

According to its website, the Scenic Texas Organization has four levels of classification for cities that qualify to be a Texas scenic city.

The levels are Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum. Buda was given the level of “Gold” based on its billboard restrictions, building design standards, parkland requirements and landscaping.

According to the statewide press release from the Scenic Texas organization there are currently 66 cities in Texas that hold the Scenic City certification.

A few of the cities that earned a 2016 Scenic City certification in addition to Buda include Cibolo, Marble Falls, Denton, Fort Worth and McAllen. 

“This certification is based mainly on development standards that promote good design aesthetics and a better pedestrian environment,” Buda Planning Director Chance Sparks said in the release.

According to Buda Mayor Todd Ruge, the city’s re-certification is a positive thing for the city of Buda and her residents.

“It’s certainly a selling point for relocating businesses and eco-tourism. It’s also a credit to city staff and council for their dedication to preserving Buda’s small town charm,” Ruge said.

To view the entire list of Texas Scenic Cities and their level of certification visit the organizations website at www.scenictexas.org.