Port of Africatown Launches Community Beautification Initiative in Downtown Prichard

Community Beautification Volunteers

PRICHARD, Ala. — The Port of Africatown kicked off its new Community Beautification Initiative Saturday with a volunteer-led planting project in downtown Prichard. The effort marks the first phase of a long-term plan to enhance public spaces and offer residents meaningful volunteer opportunities.

Volunteers from the City of Prichard, the Port of Africatown, and T-Mobile planted flowers in 16 new flower beds in the downtown Prichard area. The project was funded by a T-Mobile Hometown Grant awarded to the Port of Africatown in December 2024.

“This project is about pride, progress, and people,” said City of Prichard District 4 Councilwoman Teresa Bettis. “Beautifying our neighborhoods sends a powerful message that Prichard matters. I’m grateful to the Port of Africatown and our partners for investing in this community.”

Jesse Norwood, former mayor of Prichard and Port of Africatown board member, said the planting is just the beginning.

“Our goal is to beautify downtown Prichard and create opportunities for residents to come together and see tangible improvements,” Norwood said. “These flower beds are a starting point, and as funding becomes available, we will expand and enhance these spaces.”

The Port of Africatown will maintain the flower beds and continue adding to them over time. The organization’s broader mission is to preserve Africatown’s legacy while promoting economic opportunity, environmental stewardship, and community-driven development.

Local entrepreneur and author Jessica Norwood, who works closely with the organization, said the initiative shows the impact of grassroots involvement.

“When residents see themselves reflected in projects like this, it changes how they engage with their city,” she said. “It shows what’s possible when community, leadership, and partners work together.”

Volunteers also received a surprise holiday visit from Santa Claus, who thanked participants for their efforts — bringing smiles to people of all ages and underscoring the event’s festive, community-focused spirit.

The initiative will continue with future planting days and improvement projects as funding allows. Organizers say it aims to enhance downtown Prichard and strengthen civic engagement.

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