One of the state's foremost art associations has recognized the village of Lemont for its dedication to promoting the arts within the community.

Arts Alliance Illinois and the Illinois Municipal League selected Lemont as the Presidents' Choice winner for the Arts Friendly Community Awards, Trustee Ron Stapleton announced Monday.

The award is given to two communities each year; Lemont won for towns with populations less than 20,000.

The Arts Friendly Community Awards "recognize and celebrate Illinois municipalities and municipal leaders who have gone above and beyond in building more vibrant and livable communities through the arts," according to the Arts Alliance Illinois Web site.

The village's application for the award cited recent projects such as the downtown "Pride of Lemont" mural honoring Rudy Kling and the mosaics on the Stephen Street bridge and planters, Stapleton said.

The Lemont Center for the Arts, which opened Sept. 18 at 1243 State St., was also mentioned in the village's application.

Mayor Brian Reaves first announced the award to a shocked Arts and Culture Commission at the center's grand opening event. For the full story and video of the award presentation, click here.