In 2008, West Union decided to champion the practices of sustainable urban design, and was designated a Green Pilot Program by the Iowa Department of Economic Development. WU's streetscape is a transformational compilation of design elements that collectively reshape the public spaces of sidewalks and streets as a place that is more comfortable for walking than driving.

As a green Pilot Project, West Union is a pioneer in establishing best practices for the implementation of green infrastructure. West Union realizes that urban areas are part of, not separate from, the natural cycles of the prairie. And will serve as a model and outdoor classroom to communities that want to improve their economic viability through sustainable green infrastructure. Water, is treated as a resource instead of an obstacle.