-- Mark Francis, UC Davis professor of landscape architecture, has received an Ahwahnee Award from the American Institute of Architects, American Planning Association, and Local Government Commission for his design of Davis Central Park and the Farmers Market. Central Park was selected as one of the best projects built in the last 10 years that exemplifies the creation of more livable, pedestrian-oriented and transit-based communities throughout the 14 western states. The award was presented to Francis at the Smart Growth Conference in San Diego organized by the Urban Land Institute and the Local Government Commission. Central Park also received a Centennial Medallion from the American Society of Landscape Architects as one of the most important designed landscapes of the last century. Francis is currently designing a 100-acre, $8 million Art and Nature Park for the Indianapolis Museum of Art.