Annual Spring Clean-up Efforts Reduce Blight, Build Community Across the City
April 18th was a big day for Keep Greater Milwaukee Beautiful, Marquette University and Safe & Sound. Every April Safe & Sound coordinates with KGMB and Marquette to organize numerous neighborhood block beautification events and neighborhood block parties. This year was no different with nine events involving over 600 participants. These events continue throughout the year, with each street event organized by Safe & Sound starting off with a clean sweep of the strewn bags, paper, and plastic bottles that line so many of the high-crime Milwaukee streets and alleys we work. It allows every resident, young or old, to physically take part in neighborhood improvement efforts and visibly demonstrate their pride and commitment to the neighborhood. Moreover, Safe & Sound organizes alley identification efforts, graffiti removal, vacant lot clean-ups and gardening activities.
Additionally, Safe & Sound conducts housing surveys in coordination with the Department of Neighborhood Services every spring. Our goal is a total of 320 written, posted, and mailed violations by May 22nd. The focus is on safety violations (broken railings, steps, windows, doors, unsecured garages etc.) and more minor cosmetic issues (trim paint, soil erosion etc.). Exterior nuisance warnings address blight, such as loose garbage and debris in backyards and alleys. Exterior blight warnings are issued year round with a target of 480 by December. Letters to property owners contain a home resource sheet and a positive community focused message, which contributes to the greater than 85% voluntary compliance from property owners.
KGMB helps provide many of the supplies necessary for clean-ups, including bags, hand cleaner and ever popular coupons. The Department of Neighborhood Service provides staff training, tools, supplies and enforcement for non-compliant property owners. Safe & Sound involves block clubs and youth groups at the street level. Together, we share supplies, expertise and information with our collaborators throughout the year; increasing the reach of Safe & Sound and making the best of limited resources. This year was no different, kicking off with nine events involving over 600 participants.
Just a few of the block events organized by Safe & Sound on April 18th:
McGovern Park: Westlawn Courtyard Captains Clean-up
United South: 12th & Concordia Community Clean-up
Parklawn/Lincoln Creek Neighborhood: Leon Terrace Block Event
Historic South Neighborhood: Block Club & Safe Place Clean-up
Harambee North Neighborhood: Burleigh & Richards Block Party
