The Florida Redevelopment Association has recognized the redevelopment planning work of Ayres and its client, the City of St. Cloud, in its annual Best Book. The publication celebrates efforts in planning, blight management, housing projects, rehabilitation, renovation, and reuse.

The City’s Downtown Alley Improvements Study aims to revitalize forgotten spaces through a two-phase planning effort that re-imagines 11 alleyways across 12 blocks as walkable, economically vibrant, and culturally activated urban connectors. The study used assessments, stakeholder input, and case studies to develop customized improvement strategies for alleys of three distinct types: active, connector, and service. It includes design recommendations, cost estimates, phasing, and funding guidance to support implementation.

The study has already influenced city planning and represents a transformative vision for how underutilized infrastructure can enhance connectivity, safety, sustainability, and economic vitality.