First it was solar power. Now Green Mountain Power officials are teaming up with Rutland area businesses and community groups to harness flower power.
Think about it. What do real estate agents always tell you when you're trying to sell your house in the summer? Make sure you've got fresh flowers growing our front to boost curb appeal.
Green Mountain Power's Steve Costello got to thinking why not encourage everyone in Rutland to plant flowers as a way to boost the whole city's appeal? "As of today," says Costello, "we have nearly 40 organizations and businesses that have already signed on to be partners in this effort and I expect that that number will grow exponentially over the next few weeks and hopefully over the next several years.
Costello says its part of a beautification effort that will include planting millions of flowers citywide over the next few years.
Rutland officials have already begun preparing a large flowerbed outside city hall and flowers and gardens are also planned for the city's northwest neighborhood - an area that's been struggling with crime and high vacancies.
Kiki McShane is Vice President of Business Development for Chris Fucci Associates - one of many Rutland businesses taking part.
"I think it's very important to create an image of what you want to put out to everybody that's in your community," says McShane. "That includes business people and our families. And I think with having beautiful landscapes and lively colors we are going to give a very positive first impression. It actually shows we're here, we're alive and we care about what you think about us."
McShane says they'll begin extensive landscaping around their downtown offices this week.
