Ironwood looks forward to 'fresh downtown appeal'

IRONWOOD - Spring really is on its way, and nothing shows it better than the blooming of flowers. If the winter weather ever subsides, the Downtown Ironwood Development Authority plans to hang flower baskets again this year in the downtown area near Memorial Day.

With the installation of new lights and planting of trees last year, as well as improved parking, the flower baskets were like the "crowning touch" for a fresh downtown appeal, DIDA chairman Tom Williams said.

According to Williams, there was an enormous response last year when the baskets were put out and he heard a lot of positive comments.

"Last year we had tremendous cooperation from businesses in the downtown area and along the highway, but also from citizens who just felt it was a worthwhile project," he said.

Though it's been done on and off over the years, this will be the fourth consecutive year the DIDA has been hanging flower baskets.

The baskets are purchased locally, and last year's trailing petunia flowers were "really eye catching" pinks and purples, Williams said, and he expects something similar this year.

"Each basket costs $35 and we have a total of 69 baskets that go along downtown main routes and downtown in the Depot Park," he said.

The DIDA pays for the entire cost of the project, including contracting a person who waters and cares for the baskets. The group is seeking donations to offset that cost.

Williams said with last year's donations, both from businesses and individual residents, the DIDA was able to fund nearly the entire project.

"A lot of people said 'Hey, they look really nice so I'm going to send you a check," he said.

The DIDA will be mailing letters requesting donations to numerous businesses along the highway and individuals in the area. DIDA members will also personally deliver letters to downtown businesses within the next few days.