A Bangor redevelopment project that transformed an urban wasteland waterfront into a water recreation area and restaurant-bar has been named the state’s project of the year by the Maine Association of Planners.

The project was the city’s years-long effort to develop the vacant Front Street waterfront into an attractive recreation and boating area that is also home to the Sea Dog restaurant and microbrewery.

“The city’s investment in this area has not only created jobs but has also helped the tax base,” said Tom Martin, a member of the MAP awards committee. “City officials should be applauded for pushing on with this project, despite many difficulties.”

The association gave an honorable mention to a 27-home development project in Brunswick that will offer a mixture of housing for the elderly, singles and families. All the homes will share conservation and gardening areas and a common eating area is available. Residents in the community will be allowed to raise chickens, goats and other small livestock.