JAMESTOWN, N.Y. — The 2012 Jamestown Renaissance Block Challenge is underway in an effort to help Jamestown neighborhoods look a little nicer.

Groups of residents started the application process in January, and seven neighborhoods were chosen. Participants will get a 50% reimbursement, up to a thousand dollars, for exterior improvements to their homes such as painting, landscaping, fixing porches or repairing driveways.

"The whole reasoning behind this program is to create concentrated areas of visual improvement in Jamestown's neighborhoods. To encourage surrounding property owners to also have the confidence to invest in their own properties," said Peter Lombardi, director of Neighborhood Initiatives JRC.

As an added benefit, Lowes, Brigiotta's and Chautauqua Brick are offering discounts to participants.