Youngstown CityScape group held ‘Planting Day’ Saturday with over 1,000 volunteers

Youngstown nonprofit, CityScape, held their annual Streetscape Planting Day on Saturday with over 1,000 volunteers in attendance.

The nonprofit, whose aim is to beautify, develop and create green spaces for downtown Youngstown, expressed their condolences to those affected by the gas line explosion in a press release on Monday.

CityScape decided to go ahead with the Planting Day after gaining approval from city officials. The organization feels that doing something positive for the community is important now more than ever, according to the press release.

Volunteers registered online prior to the event and were given assignments to a particular area of the city they were in charge of beautifying. Examples of target areas include Central Square, West and East Federal Streets, John Young Memorials, South Avenue Bridge Police Memorial, Mahoning Commons and more.

The event started off with breakfast at the Penguin City Brewing Company at 9:00 a.m. Afterward, all volunteers planted flowers, shrubs and other greenery throughout downtown Youngstown. They also removed debris, trimmed existing shrubs and helped beautify the spaces overall.

Different community organizations, such as Youngstown State University’s Association of Professional/Administrative Staff (APAS). They were assigned Madison Avenue, Griffith Street, Belmont Avenue and Rayen Ave to improve the area’s aesthetics. Volunteers tackled tasks like weeding, litter removal, and mulching within the area.

“We are incredibly proud of our APAS members who consistently go above and beyond to support Youngstown,” Susan Moorer, president of the YSU APAS Union, said. “Their participation in CityScape exemplifies our union’s dedication to building a stronger, more vibrant city for all.”

Participants enjoyed a catered lunch provided by several downtown restaurants in a large tent at Penguin City.

CityScape also had everyone gather for a moment of silence for Akil Drake, a man who was killed during the gas explosion, as well as seven victims who were injured by the tragedy.

“We believe this is a way for the community to come together to mourn and to heal, and when faced with immense tragedy, for some, the ability to seek comfort and reassurance with others helps foster hope,” the organization said in the press release.

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