Beautification project begins in Russellville

By Staff
Melissa Dozier-Cason, FCT staff writer
The City of Russellville began working on its beautification project this week in an effort to attract more industry.
The Garden Spot has been hired to complete the project located at the intersection of Highway 43 and East Lawrence Street. This intersection was chosen because it is one of the busiest intersections in the county, Mayor Johnny Brown said.
All four corners of the intersection will receive new landscaping in an effort to make it more attractive. Shrubs and Crate Myrtle trees are being placed around the intersection and in the median, Connie Welch, landscaping crew supervisor, said.
"We tried to pick plants that would withstand dry weather," Brown said about the tree selection.
The mayor and city council are doing all they can to promote more industry. The council has been working on getting this project funded for several months, and this is a good start to city beautification, Brown said.
The landscaping project should be completed by the first of the year, weather permitting, Welch said.
The mayor and city council feel that city beautification will improve economic development.
"The appearance of the city makes a real difference in recruiting industry," Brown said.
The city received a $50,000 grant from the Alabama Department of Transportation for the project. The grant will be matched with $10,000 to $15,000 in local funds, Brown said.