Bicentennial Bluffs Neighborhood Association (BBNA) is gearing up for its annual spring cleanup, continuing a community effort that has now been going strong for 11 years.
“Our cleanups improve safety, help protect the environment, and bring neighbors together,” Co-President Candace Johnson-Wheeler said. “It creates a neighborhood people can take pride in.”
The May 2nd cleanup is one of two held each year, with another taking place in the fall. Volunteers focus on areas between Ruby Street and Jefferson Street. From the Des Plaines River to Route 30, cleaning streets, parkways, and vacant lots.
“We try to cover as much as possible within the hour and a half to two hours people are there,” said Wheeler.
The association partners with Joliet Police Department N.O.P.T. officers and St. Peter Lutheran Church. Waste Management is also partnering with the association this year. Supplies such as gloves, grabbers, and garbage bags are provided to all volunteers.
The event is a group effort. Students and others can earn up to four hours of community service. Those who attend can also take part in raffles and stay for a thank-you lunch after the cleanup.
Many residents see the cleanup as more than just picking up trash. It is a chance to show up, connect, and take ownership of the neighborhood.
Outside of the annual cleanup events, the association stays busy year-round. Informative monthly meetings are held on the third Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at St. Peter Lutheran Church Gym, 310 N. Broadway St. Residents can expect to hear from guest speakers and receive updates on what’s happening across the neighborhood and the city.
“Out guest speakers share important information with residents who want to know what’s going on in our community and city,” Wheeler said.
Photo credits: BBNA
The Bicentennial Bluffs Neighborhood Association also helps residents stay connected with local decision-makers, giving them a chance to ask questions, share concerns, and hear directly from city officials and neighborhood officers.
“We play an active role in sharing information that goes before the city council and various boards to ensure our residents are aware of any new development or city projects throughout the neighborhood,” said Wheeler.
BBNA outreach extends further into community improvements. The association partners with the Housing Authority of Joliet and the City of Joliet through the Neighborhood Choice Grant Initiative Program. If approved by HUD, the project could bring noticeable improvements to the area. So far, $125,000 has already been approved to help beautify part of Western Avenue between Broadway and Pine streets.
For more information on the Bicentennial Bluffs Neighborhood Association or to volunteer for their annual spring or fall clean-up, residents can follow the association’s Facebook page.
Also read: East and Southeast Regional Alliance Driving Change on Joliet’s East and Southeast Side
