This beautification project was made possible through a $7,500 grant from the Chautauqua County Partnership for Economic Growth, with matching funds provided by the Village of Westfield.

Don McCord, Executive Director of the Westfield Development Corp., authored the successful grant proposal. “These beautiful flower planters will create a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere for residents and visitors downtown,” McCord said.”Their unique self-watering design also means less maintenance and longer-lasting flowering plants for the community to enjoy.”

The new planters, part of the “Metropolitan Tapered Rectangle” line by Earth Planter, measure 40″ long by 22″ wide and 24″ high. Made from a durable composite in a millstone color, each unit holds up to 3.0 cubic feet of soil and features a 30-gallon reservoir with a wicking system to keep plants consistently hydrated. Weighing 45 pounds empty, the planters were filled with soil and a mix of vibrant wave petunias, coleus, and sweet potato vines.

“These containers solve a big problem by reducing how often we need to water, especially during hot, dry spells,” said Ed LeBarron, head of the Westfield Street Department. “We’ve gone from daily watering to just once every two weeks.”

The project was led by village employees Brenda Paternosh and Anthony Leone, who also care for the local parks. The Street Department filled the planters with soil and flowers and placed them along both sides of Main Street, giving the area a fresh, colorful appearance.

“We hope the new planters beautify our downtown and bring joy to residents and visitors alike,” said Paternosh. “They’re designed to brighten our downtown and make it more welcoming for everyone.”