Landscape workers have installed a variety of shrubs and flowers at the southwest quadrant of the Interstate 380 Boyson Road interchange in Hiawatha, a design that may become a model to beautify the freeway at a number of locations in the Cedar Rapids metro area.

The planting, approved last fall by the Hiawatha City Council, was made possible by a grant from the roadside improvement fund of the Iowa Department of Transportation (IDOT).  IDOT officials, led by Mark Masteller, worked with the Hiawatha Parks Dept. and Eye-380, a volunteer group seeking ways to beautify Interstate 380 in the metro area.

Angie Cole, Director of the Hiawatha Parks Dept. and a member of Eye-380, said planning for the project began in late 2007.  Eye-380 members, meeting at Trees Forever offices in Marion, were also aided by horticulture students at Kirkwood Community College.  The final design, she explained, was produced by the volunteer work of Eric Shepley, a landscape architect at Hall and Hall Engineers in Hiawatha.

All of the plants used at the Hiawatha site meet the IDOT requirements for Iowa roadside hardiness and compatibility with traffic safety.  The design incorporates heavy use of native species.  After a two-year establishment period, the maintenance of the plants becomes the responsibility of local sponsors.  Similar projects have been undertaken in other Iowa cities. 

The next step will be to determine interest in duplicating the Eye-380 design at other locations along the interstate through Cedar Rapids.  Shepley said long-term annual maintenance costs are estimated at $750 per site .  The Eye-380 committee hopes individuals, organizations and companies will support the interstate roadside improvements.   Contributions may be sent to Eye-380, care of Trees Forever, 770 7^th Ave., Marion, 52302.

Ever-Green Landscape Nursery & Supply planted the Boyson Eye-380 shrubs and grasses.   Initial maintenance will be done by Creekside Gardens.