Local group launches new cleanup initiative

A local group is launching a new community cleanup initiative, set to begin on May 16, focusing on south Blytheville.

The Pride in Property Spring and Summer Cleanup for Blytheville will be held from 8 a.m.-noon, every third Saturday, beginning May 16.

The project was organized by a team of Blytheville citizens working with the Delta Bridge Project. The purpose of this cleanup is to engage citizens within a target area and gain their assistance in restoring the neighborhoods. This community effort will focus on overgrown, vacant properties and cleaning up debris strewn on streets, sidewalks and curbs. The project will also include assistance to individuals who need help with maintenance and upkeep of their personal properties.

"This program follows in the footsteps of the Greater Blytheville Area Chamber of Commerce cleanup and the Cleaner, Safer Blytheville programs," said Desmond Hammett, one of the concerned citizens responsible for organizing the program. Hammett said it is the citizens' hope that by visiting some of the areas in need once a month that it will plant a seed of pride within the residents in these neighborhoods.

"In addition to the neighborhoods being cleaned, a project to build patio-style decks on vacant lots is planned," said Hammett.

Hammett said these decks will be available for use of the residents and also to serve as a tool to open relationships between the community and local police and firemen by inviting in the officials to come out and get to know the people who live in the neighborhoods.

Organizations and individual volunteers are being asked to donate their time to show the residents of these areas that restoring a clean and safe neighborhood can be done with a team effort and also to show the citizens of Blytheville care about their communities.

If you or your organization would like to volunteer, contact Desmond Hammett at 870-278-2058 or Doug Echols at 870-838-9905.

kevans@blythevillecourier.com