Small signs now mark 2011's Grow Jamestown gardens, calling attention to nearly 200 of the city's best gardens and their contribution to neighborhood vitality.
Between Aug. 5 and Aug. 12, signs were delivered to gardens nominated by area residents in June and early July. Distributed by the Jamestown Renaissance Corporation, the signs are part of an effort to encourage gardening and creative landscaping as a key tool of neighborhood revitalization.
"An attractive garden takes time and effort, but it adds tremendously to the appearance of homes and entire neighborhoods," said Peter Lombardi, Jamestown Renaissance Corp. director of neighborhood initiatives, noting the program stems from recommendations in the city's neighborhood revitalization plan. "A nice garden is a signal that people care about a place, and it sends a powerful message to neighbors and visitors.''
Lombardi said the garden recognition program will be back next year, along with new and expanded educational programming and other efforts to promote neighborhood curb appeal.
"Gardening is something every resident can be involved with, and it has a very visible and immediate impact on the city's appearance and the level of pride on any block," he said.
The garden recognition program is part of Grow Jamestown, a new citywide initiative to promote and support gardening as a way to achieve strong neighborhoods, healthy eating habits, physical activity, civic engagement and the productive reuse of vacant land. The initiative's logo, which adorns the garden signs, will be used to identify projects and activities tied to the effort.
Project sponsors include Brigiotta's Greenhouse and Garden Center, M&T Bank, Greg Rabb, D-At Large and City Council president; and Creating Healthy Places to Live, Work and Play.
Information on Grow Jamestown and the garden recognition program can be found on the Jamestown Renaissance Corporation website at www.jrconline.org. Photos of 2011's Grow Jamestown gardens will be appearing soon on the Jamestown Renaissance Corporation's Facebook page.
