Project EverGreen Recognizes City in Ohio for Landscaping Innovations

Innovative use of plants and landscape materials won Bexley, Ohio, this year's Project EverGreen Landscaped Areas Award in the national America in Bloom competition. Each year cities nationwide who actively work towards beautifying their community's green spaces are encouraged to enter the America in Bloom contest. This is the first year of America in Bloom program involvement for the community of 12,200.

"If the adage 'Any landscape is a condition of the spirit' is true, Bexley's civic spirit is tremendous," said Den Gardner, executive director of Project EverGreen. "As a community, Bexley demonstrates a commitment to preserving and enhancing green spaces for generations to come." Bexley also received second place in the overall America in Bloom competition, out of six cities of comparable size.

Two judges visited each community last summer to observe and evaluate ways the city can improve its green spaces. Communities were evaluated on efforts related to floral displays, urban forestry, landscaped areas, turf and groundcover, tidiness, environmental awareness, heritage conservation and community involvement.

The award was presented during the seventh annual America in Bloom Symposium and Awards Program in Columbus, Ohio, Oct. 2.