Our Projects & Programs
Macomb Beautiful Association supports a wide range of ongoing projects and community programs designed to enhance the city’s appearance while encouraging resident involvement. These efforts reflect a shared commitment to preserving and improving the spaces that define Macomb — from public parks and historic landmarks to neighborhood streets and private gardens.
Where We Plant
Macomb Beautiful Association members and work can be found throughout the city, maintaining vibrant flowerbeds and welcoming public spaces. Our dedicated committees oversee plantings and seasonal care at the McDonough County Courthouse, the Macomb Public Library, the Macomb Post Office, the Western Illinois Museum, and Chandler Park — including the Madge Howe Cooper Memorial Gardens. Each of these locations is maintained with care and pride, ensuring that residents and visitors are greeted with color and beauty throughout the growing season.
The Tree Project
Trees provide shade, improve air quality, reduce energy costs, increase property values, and create a more welcoming streetscape for everyone. By supporting tree planting in residential areas, a Macomb resident can receive reimbursement of 50% of the cost of a tree, up to a maximum of $100.
Pollinator Pocket Garden Project
By creating small, intentional garden spaces throughout the city, MBA members and residents are working together to establish a pollinator corridor across Macomb, allowing these vital species to thrive and move freely through the community.
Macomb residents can receive reimbursement of 50% of the cost to plant a pollinator-friendly garden, up to $50 toward the purchase of qualifying plants.
Amtrak Train Station
The historic Macomb Amtrak Depot, opened in 1913, holds a special place in MBA’s history — it is one of the organization’s first and most enduring projects. Every year, Macomb Beautiful members arrive in the spring to plant summer annuals in the window boxes and flower beds, transforming the depot into a welcoming gateway for travelers and residents alike. In the fall, the team returns to decorate the station with greenery and holiday cheer, creating a warm and festive atmosphere throughout the Christmas season.
Living Lincoln Topiary Monument
The Living Lincoln Topiary Monument is a 16-foot-high by 8-foot-wide bust of our 16th President, Abraham Lincoln, located on the Macomb City Hall lawn. Its mixed-media construction of durable cast stone and steel features a unique topiary aspect in which the president’s beard consists of real living flowering plants and greenery — making it the only sculpture of its kind in the world.
Our Impact
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50+ Years of Service
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Thousands of Flowers Planted
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100+ Business Members
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Generations of Community Volunteers
“Thank you to all that helped to make Macomb look so beautiful for the Holiday Season and throughout the year. It is very much appreciated.”
— Karen S. Macomb, IL
Help Us make Macomb Even More Beautiful
Every project, every flowerbed, and every improvement is made possible through community support. Whether you choose to volunteer your time, participate in a program, or make a donation, your involvement helps ensure that Macomb continues to grow as a place of beauty, pride, and connection.