The Bailey Avenue Renewal Coalition (B.A.R.C.) is a group of residents of Virden Addition, Georgetown, Mid City, Shady Oaks, High School Park, Brinkley Place, and Cottage Grove dedicated to reclaiming and revitalizing the historic neighborhoods around Bailey Avenue.  This community-building initiative is the first time that leaders from the individual neighborhoods have worked together toward common goals.  The group presents a unified voice to city leaders.

B.A.R.C. uses “people power,” the identified skills and talents of each local citizen, to improve their neighborhoods and their quality of life.  For example, if one resident is able to do yard work, he can lend a hand to those in the neighborhood who are not able to do that kind of work.

The Bailey Avenue Renewal Coalition also administers the United Way Grants for Blocks program.  These small grants provide seed money for small neighborhood beautification projects resulting in visible improvements in the community.

B.A.R.C. regularly sends out a newsletter to all the residents of the neighborhoods involved. They are responsible for placing colorful street banners in the Jackson Medical Mall area.

B.A.R.C.’s most important accomplishment is restoring a sense of pride and unity in the residents of the Bailey Avenue area.

B.A.R.C. meetings are held on the second Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. in room 3520 of the Jackson Medical Mall.  Any interested resident is welcome to attend.  If you would like more information about the Bailey Avenue Renewal Coalition, please call Leon Lowe at 362-4529.