Flowers can make a big difference when it comes to making a residential, commercial or business district more welcoming. Yesterday I was sent this image by a businessman in Downtown Buffalo, who asked that I give a shout out to The Convention Center (Visit Buffalo Niagara) for the great work that they did this summer by keeping areas such as Court Street (photo) vibrant and attractive. Sometimes it is the simplest gestures that can help to make a street pleasant to visit, and for those who work in the area the upkeep of the district should not be taken for granted. The fact that one business person who works Downtown near The Convention Center, spent the time to take a photo and send it to us says a lot for the work that has been done this summer.
According to Keep America Beautiful, commerce and safety are two fringe benefits that come along with these sorts of beautification efforts:
Commerce: Treescaped [and flowering] business districts average 12% higher revenue than treeless areas, and consumer responses to green retail and business locations are consistently positive. “Views of green” have even been shown to improve employee satisfaction and productivity for area businesses.
Safety: Beautification projects bring neighbors together, building pride, cohesion and connection. Public housing areas with trees and vegetation have shown a 50% reduction in both violent crimes and property crimes.
Following is a response to the recognition from Paul Murphy @ the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center (BNCC):