Project Seeks To Give Roswell's Historic District A 'Face Lift'

ROSWELL, GA -- Roswell business owners and citizens have joined forces to create the Historic Roswell Beautification Project, an initiative dedicated to improving and preserving the beauty and charm of the historic district through streetscape enhancements.

The group's members seek to improve civic pride and enhance the downtown Roswell experience for residents and visitors alike.

The initial phase of the project includes protecting and maintaining existing trees and removing and replacing dying trees; improving the appearance of the Heart of Roswell Park by pressure washing and landscaping; and installing up to 25 flowering baskets onto light posts. More details on these first efforts and targeted locations can be found at HRBProject.com.

Renee Shirley, a Roswell resident and business owner, was concerned that the beauty of the historic district faded as necessary basic improvements and re-investments went overlooked.

“I feel that civic pride is measured by observing how citizens take care of and maintain their outside space," she said. "Our historic district streetscape does not measure up. It is in dire need of a face lift.”

Shirley approached concerned citizens, city officials, and civic groups like the Historic Roswell Business Association to create a coalition of like-minded activists determined to save the downtown’s charm and unique sense-of-place.

“Visitors are drawn from all over the state to visit our historic downtown area,” noted Ryan Pernice, owner of Table & Main and Osteria Mattone, both of which sit along Canton Street. “We need to put our city’s best foot forward.”

The HRBP is working with the city, and calling on locals to assist in fundraising efforts to reach their goal of $100,000 to support Phase 1 efforts. Donations can be made through Friends of the Roswell Parks in the following ways:

• Online at HRBProject.com (click the ‘Donate’ link)
• Mail a check to Friends of Roswell Park, c/o Recreation and Parks Dept., PO Box 1612, Roswell, GA 30077 (write “HRBP” in the check memo line”).

Following the completion of Phase 1, the HRBP will need volunteers to help water and maintain new plantings. Those interested are encouraged to follow the HRBP’s Facebook Page to stay up-to-date on progress and volunteer opportunities.

For more information, reach out to the organization at BeautifulRoswell@gmail.com.

Graphic via Historic Roswell Beautification Project