Doing the Little Things to Improve Rosemont

I'm interested in how to better our neighborhood. 

It gets a more than a little discouraging to see business leaving and houses vacant.  The past year I have become more active in the community by starting a neighborhood watch group, attending meetings and becoming involved in some projects.

But I know what it is like to have family and work obligations and then getting so busy you don't have time for much else.  I would like to get people's ideas on little things that can be done to improve Rosemont and encourage more people to take action.

One thing I've done recently is call when there is an unkempt, vacant looking home. If there is a real estate sign I will call and let the company know that I am calling as a concerned neighbor and would someone please take care of the lawn.  I've called code enforcement (916-874-6444) for vacancies with overgrown weeds and grass (needs to be at least three feet tall). The fire department (916-859-4300) can also be called if it looks like it may be a fire hazard.

I don't always get a return call, but I have noticed that lawns were cut and the vacancies cleaned up.  So I think this is one thing that can make a difference in our neighborhoods.  What other ideas, concerns, solutions do people have for neighborhood improvement?