Mike W. Bryant
Northern News Services

Yellowknife (July 26/02) - A group of residents in Trail's End are taking the city's adopt-a-street program to a new level.

Residents along 49 A Ave. began their first project three years ago, when they decided to decorate a small plot around a post office box with planted flowers, garden gnomes, and the like.

Their efforts led to a Communities in Bloom award for the nicest looking neighbourhood in 1999.

But they are even more ambitious this year, having spent practically every night for the last week laying dirt, planting flowers and a gravel path, all in the hope of turning what was once a derelict, empty lot into the neighbourhood pride and joy.

"We're just trying to make Yellowknife beautiful," says Rosalie Power, one of 16 neighbours taking part in the project. While the adopt-a-street program will likely not generate any heated competition between the various neighbourhoods in town, Power believes they are starting to elevate themselves into a league of their own.

"No, no there's no match, "says Power. "The bragging rights go to 49 A Ave."

The 49 A Ave. residents have a received a helping hand in other areas, however.

NorthwesTel sponsored the 1999 project, and contributed top soil for the lawn which residents are putting in this year.

Now other businesses are stepping up to the plate, including Bromley and Sons, the YK Garden Centre and Arcan Construction, among several others.

"We got at least $3,000 in donations," says friend Stella Rice. With all the help, the residents expect the lot will become a nice, little break-out area in time. Where people can come play with their children or just relax.