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Whether it’s by promoting Earth Day or through other means, many in Winchester have looked to turn environmental conscientiousness into action. 

On Tuesday, April 22, another such opportunity arises. 

The annual Main Street Clean Sweep takes place from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., beginning at City Hall offices at 32 Wall Street. 

“Main Street Clean Sweep is an annual effort by Bluegrass Greensource and the City of Winchester to pick up all the litter downtown…and [on] the surrounding streets,” said Shanda Cecil, stormwater coordinator for the City of Winchester. 

According to its website, https://bggreensource.org, Bluegrass Greensource “provides environmental education, resources, and outreach that inspires, equips, and empowers Central Kentuckians with knowledge and tools to help ensure clean, healthy and enjoyable environments for future generations.” 

With the weather starting to warm up more reliably and winter in the rearview mirror, this time of year is considered ideal for such an event. 

According to Cecil, the event serves multiple purposes. 

“Aesthetically, the area looks better, but also from a stormwater we keep that litter from falling into our storm drains and eventually into our creeks,” she said. “It serves as a good community builder…that’s an important element also.” 

While Main Street is in the name of the event, other areas will be covered as well, including Wall Alley, Broadway Street, Highland Street, and more. 

Common items found over the years have included cigarette buds, beverage containers, aluminum cans, and more. 

Cecil added that the event served as a meaningful way to address challenges while also providing conveniences. 

“It’s a simple thing we can do to appreciate mother Earth,” she said. 

She also emphasized that others who get involved will make a large impact, noting that gloves, litter pickers, t-shirts and more will be provided. 

“We just hope we have participation,” she said. “Come down for thirty minutes [or] come down for the whole hour-and-a-half. You’d be surprised what you can do in thirty minutes.”