(Above) - After construction was completed.

Over the years, the ACSID's Landscaping Division has proven that when it comes to doing its job, the motto "the bigger the project, the better the finished product" definitely stands out. In early August 2003, 3123 Atlantic Avenue, located on the northeast corner of Montpelier and Atlantic avenues, became the site of another big project that, when finished, would yield tremendous results.

In order to turn a concrete-laden landscape into an inviting lush green lawn with trees and plants, six dumptruck loads of concrete and old sidewalk were removed from the site. Next, contractors installed 75 linear feet of 2' wide by 2' deep footings needed to support a concrete block retaining wall. The wall was comprised of 750 pewter blend terrace wall blocks that form an attractive planter for flowers and plants. To keep them and the 500 square feet of Bluegrass sod alive, electrical conduit, 400 linear feet of irrigation piping, timer, 18 sprinkler heads and solenoid valves were installed throughout the property.

(Above) - During construction.

Construction details were not just limited to landscaping, though. Twenty five 2'x14' limestone treads were installed to make up the new stairway leading from the newly replaced sidewalks, trimmed with brick pavers, up to the building's porch.

Once the heavy concrete and block work was completed it was time to dress up the property. 50 tons of topsoil, along with shrubs and perennials, were installed. Also, one 35' and two 30' flagpoles were secured to 5'x10'x4 deep concrete footings. Five powerful

lights, three for the flagpoles and two for the new signage, were installed to allow both to be visible at night.

(Above) - Before construction began.

To top it all off, four tree pits along the sidewalk were created by saw cutting and jack hammering concrete away. This was done in order to plant four new trees, and install tree grates and tree guards around them. All in all, another job well done. The following landscapers provided the needed muscle and knowhow to complete this project: Jim Lawlor, assistant manager; Bob Williams, assistant manager/construction; Hassan Austin; Daniel Mack; Angel Torres and Lance Hamilton.