Planting a few perennials here and potting some plants there can make a huge difference in improving the aesthetics and safety of your property. In 1992, the Macalester-Groveland Community Council agreed that community beautification deters crime. In response, they started the Alley Garden Awards, which are given to any resident who meets the following four criteria:

Alley Garden Award Criteria

1. The property must have an easily recognizable house number on the garage (or elsewhere in the alley if there is no garage).

2. The garden must be along the alley and on the alley side of any fence.

3. The alley garden must be weed-free and well-maintained.

4. The alley side of the property must positively contribute to the character and beauty of the alley by being litter free and neat.

If your alley doesn’t already meet the criteria, consider making a change. Prepare your alleyside property in time for the Alley Garden Awards and help prevent garage burglaries and other crimes facilitated by unkempt property.

The Alley Garden Awards generally take place each summer. You can nominate yourself or a neighbor, or just wait for volunteer judges to walk down your alley and identify qualifying alley gardens.

In the fall, all Alley Garden Award winners will be invited to a ceremony to recognize their efforts to beautify their alleys and reduce crime in their neighborhood.

We need volunteers to make alley garden flags, plant flags in participating alley gardens, and walk the alleys looking for qualifying alley gardens. To volunteer, or for more information on this year's event, email marie@macgrove.org.