The Middlesex 3 Coalition has been recognized by municipal leaders for its efforts to promote economic development north of Boston.

The Massachusetts Municipal Association presented the coalition with its Kenneth E. Pickard Municipal Innovation Award on Saturday.

Founded three years ago, the Middlesex 3 Coalition is a partnership between public officials and the private sector to improve the job market, tax base and quality of life in the Route 3 North corridor. The group is headed by Bedford Town Manager Richard Reed and Robert Buckley, a senior partner at Boston law firm Riemer & Braunstein.

Among the group’s efforts are the creation of a shuttle service to Technology Park in Billerica, a preliminary development master plan and real estate strategies.

"Middlesex 3 works to solve the common issues in the area and to improve the quality of life for local residents," Buckley said in a prepared statement. "The key is the public-private partnership we’ve created. It allows us a unique perspective on economic and municipal opportunities. "

UMass Lowell and Middlesex Community College are also founding members representing the education sector.