SAGE is a donation funded, municipality managed program designed to beautify the local streetscape, boost community pride and appreciation, and facilitate future economic development by creating a more inviting roadway environment.

Where is the funding for a SAGE Program derived?

The entirety of a SAGE Program is funded by local business and special interest groups (such as garden clubs) wishing to invest in the visual aesthetic improvement of local streets and roads. Virginia and the Federal government also have grant programs which SAGE Programs can qualify for.

How will my town benefit from a SAGE Program?

In many ways! The first thing you will notice is the actual improvement of the streetscape. By adding gardens, the harshness of a typical streetscape will be softened. This will provide a much more enjoyable experience for motorists and residents near the gardens. The next thing you can experience may be the local residents taking pride in the appearance of the community. This can help reduce littering along local roadways. Tourism may also be boosted by SAGE Program efforts when concerted with other tourism boosting activities and programs.

Who is Harvey Design Land Architects and why should I use them to aid in the management of a SAGE Program in my town?

Harvey Design Land Architects (HDLA) is a professional Landscape Architecture firm with a long history of working with municipalities to better the community through conscious efforts focusing on Outdoor Architecture, Landscape Architecture, and Community Involvement. HDLA also has the distinct acclaim as being the originators of the SAGE Program, beginning in 1991 with the LEAF Program in Lynchburg. HDLA will help your town administer the SAGE Program through the Commonwealth of Virginia and the Virginia Department of Transportation.

What is the LEAF Program in Lynchburg?

LEAF (the Lynchburg Expressway Appearance Fund), is the mother of the SAGE Program. In early 1990, Proctor Harvey of Harvey Design Land Architects was approached about solving a problem in Lynchburg. The problem was the Lynchburg Expressway, a 10-mile stretch of 55 mph, four-lane highway. The landscape of the road was bleak and dreary, and litter was a constant problem. The solution evolved into what we now known as the SAGE Program.

How will Harvey Design Land Architects help guarantee the success of my town’s SAGE Program?

The LEAF Program (the origin of what is now the SAGE Program) has received national and international acclaim and awards from special interest groups and others. These include Keep America Beautiful, Garden Club of Virginia, Virginia Region 2000 Business Award, International Society of Arboriculture Gold Leaf Award, and National Arbor Day Foundation’s Lady Bird Johnson Award. The LEAF Program also raised an incredible $1.5-million for the City of Lynchburg through contributions and grants.

What else can be done to help improve my town which Harvey Design Land Architects can assist with?

HDLA also has a long history of working along side municipalities to manage Streetscape and Corridor projects, Historical District Revitalizations, Coordinated Signage and many others. HDLA has the staff, experience, and desire to work with you to ensure your town will be more beautiful and positioned to boost economic development.