Willis shows support for beautification project in Beech Bottom

BEECH BOTTOM - Beautification efforts in parts of Brooke County have received a boost from one local legislator.

Del. Jimmy Willis, R-Brooke, contributed $1,000 in Local Economic Development Assistance funds toward a series of beautification projects in Beech Bottom.

"It’s been a priority of mine to see beautification projects come to life," Willis said, noting it is about providing a nice area for people to live, work, and raise their families as a way to complement the various economic development efforts in the region. "We have to have beautiful communities for people to live."

Beech Bottom Mayor Becky Uhlly explained the funding is being put toward the improvements of several flower beds in the community, many of which have been filled with red, white, and blue perennials, to ensure the flowers will return each year.

A variety of flowers have been planted in the large flower garden located in front of the village offices, and Uhlly said they are in the process of preparing a water feature for installation.

"It’s been a blessing to have someone support what we do," Uhlly said, offering thanks to Willis.

Willis also recently contributed $2,000 in LEDA funds to Bethany to assist with the installation of a new pergola and other amenities as part of a renovation to an outdoor community space in the Bethany Town Square.

"We are ‘Almost Heaven’ for a reason," Willis said, giving credit to many of the local county and municipal officials for leading the efforts.

(Howell can be contacted at chowell@weirtondailytimes.com)