Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett announced Wednesday that the City of Milwaukee is one of nine cities worldwide to receive a World Leadership award for its model of affordable housing that transforms neighborhoods. The World Leadership Forum issued the award to the City of Milwaukee Housing Authority in a recent ceremony in London.

Leaders in 400 of the world's largest cities were asked to submit synopses of their most successful projects. Cities earning an award this year include Milwaukee; Madrid; Lagos, Nigeria; Salt Lake City; Phnom Penh, Cambodia and Port Elizabeth, South Africa.

The World Leadership Forum is a not-for-profit organization that promotes leadership internationally by highlighting the work of exceptional leaders and achievers in categories that make the greatest impact.

"We have a tremendous story to tell about our transformation of public housing developments into great neighborhoods," said Mayor Barrett. "Together with our residents, we've linked physical revitalization with education, employment, and health care services -- a winning combination in the war on poverty."

Milwaukee received the award based on a summary of the revitalization for the following neighborhoods: Hillside Terrace, Lapham Park, Parklawn and Highland Park.