The Rudy Bruner Award for Urban Excellence (RBA) promotes innovative thinking and conversation about the role of design in cities. 

The RBA seeks out and shares the stories of creative and inspiring urban development to increase understanding about the complex process of creating beautiful, just, and resilient places. Founded in 1985, the national design award has recognized and documented 88 transformative places in the United States that have contributed to the economic, environmental, and social vitality of their communities. 

The RBA is a platform for ongoing inquiry and exchange about the built environment and cities and a resource for anyone interested in urban development. Through the award, publications, and programs, the RBA engages a broad audience of educators, practitioners, and students.

The knowledge accumulated over 35 years of investigating urban development in America is a resource for learning, discussion, and advocacy and for inspiring new ideas and solutions.