Watts thanks community, describes 19th Street SE work

From Chris Watts of Mason City –

I’d like to send some THANKS here and explain a little more regarding the 19th St. S.E. beautification project.

A few years back, the North side of the roadway was an eyesore. Along with a few neighbors, we came up with a plan that could only be carried out with the financial help and support we’ve received from many individuals around Mason City.

(PHOTO: Nice weather over the winter months allowed Chris Watts to mow and pick up on 19th Street SW, where he is leading an effort to beautify the area.)

Clean-up and planting of 279 lilacs was the initial project.

But this year our focus changed a little. We had to stop the project due to ‘lilac bore infestation’.

Never heard of such a thing before! Guess this is one of those live & learn experiences.

But thanks to the media and the articles given public attention, we are back on track!
Cutting Edge is due for a second spraying of the existing hedge, and we are expanding further East.

This will be of a different bush variety.

This was all possible due to many more people stepping up to the plate financially.

Alot of people are involved in seeing this next step take place this Saturday.

We had the Traction Railroad, Iowa One Call, Vern Mondry, Mike Olson, McKinniss, Bob Berggren and city staff involved with site preparation.

The Water Dept., Ironhouse Gym, River City Fence, Kitty Clasing & Natural Plus involved with the actual plants themselves.

This is a 100% Volunteer project that all traveler’s of 19th street and the new trail can enjoy.
Most of the funding is in place, but we would welcome more donations.

These can be made by sending a check to ‘Georgia Hanford Neighborhood’ & mail to Nancy Solberg-Treasurer.

The address is 303-19th St. S.E.—Mason City, 50401.

Thanks again to all of you who have helped “Make A Difference” in Mason City.

Chris Watts-Neighborhood Chair
424-5835