Things are coming up roses for Castlegar when it comes to recent Communities in Bloom results.

Castlegar’s Community in Bloom (CCIB) chair, Darlene Kalawsky said she’s proud that the community’s hard work has paid off and earned Castlegar four blooms in the national division.

“I thank the community for the work on the program. It’s been amazing. The judges thought Castlegar was fabulous, in a great location and that we have a wonderful quality of life,” said Kalawsky.

Scoring 804.5 points out of 1000, this year’s score was up from last year’s 797 points.

Based on eight criteria, scoring is divided evenly between: floral displays, turf and ground covers, landscaped areas, natural and cultural heritage conservation, tidiness, environmental awareness, tree/urban forest management and community involvement.

Kalawsky said critiquing is good in that the community has an opportunity to look at how it has done things and which works well and which doesn’t.

One of those things the judges said Castlegar could work on is the downtown core.

“The judge thought we should encourage more community involvement and encourage the businesses to be more aware of their presentation and tidiness. They noticed there was not a lot of pride in the downtown businesses and that could be improved with things such as improving business fronts and maybe installing window boxes.”

The committee is taking that suggestion and other suggestions to heart and plan on working on those areas which need improvement.

“We need to develop a partnership with our businesses and perhaps developing a partnership in developing more awareness of the program,” Kalawsky explained.

CCIB did receive an honorable mention for Sculpture Walk an exhibit of original outdoor sculptures displayed year-around in downtown. Judges also suggest that Castlegar formulate heritage plans for such places as the Railway Station and Zuckerberg Island for their care and longevity.

All in all, Kalawsky said the judges don’t really judge you against other communities.

“Basically the judges are judging you against yourself and your potential.”

Kalawsky concluded that CCIB is pleased with the outcome.

“From our perspective we’re happy. We’re new to the block and have only been in this for six years. Some other cities have a larger budget, but this is about creativity, working together and having some goals.”