Warrenville gets 'four-bloom' rating from America in Bloom

Warrenville received a four-bloom rating out of a possible five blooms in the 2015 America in Bloom contest.

All participants were evaluated on six criteria: overall impression, environmental awareness, heritage preservation, urban forestry, landscape and floral displays. Additionally they were judged on their community involvement across municipal, residential and commercial sectors.

America in Bloom is the only national awards program that sends trained judges to visit participants. Each participating community receives a detailed written evaluation that can be used as a guide to future improvements. In addition, they received a special mention for environmental efforts.

Diana Weiner and Kristin Pategas, AIB judges, visited communities of similar populations and spent two days touring each town, meeting municipal officials, residents and volunteers. Other competitors in the 12,500 to 16,000 population category were Marietta, Ohio; Holliston, Massachusetts; and Woodhaven, Michigan. Results of the 2015 contest were announced last month in Holland, Michigan.

Judges were impressed with Warrenville, saying, "We can see why their motto is 'Come for a visit, stay for a lifetime!' Warrenville is a special place."

"America in Bloom is helping towns and cities of all sizes achieve their potential," America in Bloom Executive Director Laura Kunkle said. "Every year our participants raise the bar, and the accomplishments and progress shown by this year's group is again remarkable. These are, without a doubt, some of the best places to live in America."

Registration for the 2016 national awards program can be submitted until Feb. 28. Eligible participants include towns, cities, college and university campuses, business districts, military installations, and recognized neighborhoods of large cities.

For information, visit AmericaInBloom.org.