A TWIST ON YOUR TYPICAL FLOWER PLANTER

The City of Beloit, Wisconsin has a flower planter with two kaleidoscopes attached to it.  Just another example of something that could be incorporated into a community's downtown that will give visitors and locals a reason to pause and experience something a little out of the ordinary.

ANOTHER EXAMPLE OF A VACANT STORE FRONT THAT ADDS INTEREST

Even in vibrant downtown districts like Madison, Wisconsin; there will be the occasional vacant building front.  The owner of the property (or someone who got the owner's blessing) did a great job turning this downtown from an object of blight to a point of interest.

POCKET PARKS

Pocket parks are usually associated with larger communities, but more seem to be showing up in communities of all sizes. Downtowns with "missing" storefronts can beautify gaps by adding some plantings, benches and other amenities.   This one of two such parks in downtown Beloit, Wisconsin.

This particular park provides seating towards the business storefronts and access to additional parking behind the buildings.  Regardless of which direction you enter from, the space is useful and looks good.