Started in 2016, the Flower and Beautification initiative was one of the first placemaking efforts led by what is now Grow Clinton. Recognizing the need to enhance the riverfront, the Clinton Convention and Visitors Bureau brought together volunteers to plant and maintain over 20 flower planters along the river.

Now in its ninth year, the tradition continues with community members once again stepping up to plant and care for the planters. Volunteers include: Cleaning Up Clinton; Kathy Pennock; Betsy Miller; Kelli Hartman; Mary Nakawatase; Doug & Peggy Rempfer; REM Iowa; Building & Neighborhood Services; Linda & Tony Ramsey; Make-A-Wish; Sedona Staffing; Valerie Hill; Sara Misiewicz; Pathway Living Center; Clinton Printing; Sally Nelson; Gabel Chiropractic; Riverfront Running Gang; Mississippi Turtle Herd; and Core Dermatology.

“Every year, volunteers spend hundreds of their own dollars and countless hours maintaining the pots. These flowers are in nearly every photo of the riverfront over the past decade,” noted Sarah Smith, Director of Placemaking and Tourism at Grow Clinton.  “The Riverfront looks pristine for our amazing summer of activities like Tailgate n Tallboys, Finally Friday, Lumberkings baseball, Showboat Theater, Juneteenth, and Fourth of July.”

In addition to the FAB Program, Main Avenue and Downtown Clinton also received their seasonal refresh, supported by local merchants and volunteer groups bringing color and care to the community. Downtown arranged volunteers and merchants for multiple days to help. Through the whole town, the city plays an important support role, and when park land, lead role, in creating the crisp and vibrant Riverfront that drives tourists and locals alike to enjoy the river all summer long.