Funds Sought To Beautify Prominent West Hartford Neighborhood

WEST HARTFORD, CT— A neighborhood beautification effort is underway as 'Elmwood Blooms!' begins its 2026 fundraising campaign to support seasonal flower planters along New Britain Avenue.

Founded more than a decade ago by longtime resident and businessman Charlie Hilborn, the initiative brings together residents and local businesses to install and maintain decorative planters throughout the Elmwood section.

Organizers say the program relies on annual contributions from nearly 100 donors, including residents and members of Friends of Elmwood.

Donations will go directly toward purchasing and caring for the planters, which are intended to enhance the corridor’s appearance during the spring and summer months.

Residents can contribute online or by mailing a check by May 12 to KNOX, Inc., which helps coordinate the program’s landscaping efforts.

Checks should be addressed to the attention of Jason Carl, director of landscape operations, at the organization’s Hartford office.

Organizers said community participation remains central to the effort’s success and are encouraging residents to contribute at any level.

Elmwood is a diverse, predominantly middle-to-working-class neighborhood in southeast West Hartford, located south of Interstate 84 and bordering Hartford and Newington.

Known for its historic roots, postwar single-family homes, and the Elmwood Community Center, it serves as a bustling residential and industrial hub with easy access to New Britain Avenue.

Questions about the program can be directed to Hilborn at charlieandpamela@gmail.com or Carl at jasonc@KNOXhartford.org.

For more information and to donate to the effort, click on this link.