"America in Bloom" is a project that travels all over the country looking for communities where residents take pride in where they live. This year St. Clairsville is one of their stops for the 5,000 to 20,000 population category.

Judges told NEWS9 they are looking for several things, including beautfication and heritage. One of their stops is the National Road Bikeway, known for its beautiful atmosphere and being a great place families can enjoy.

"We are looking for clean communities that have a lot of involvement," said Jack Classen, one of the judges.

Bob Vincenzo, the mayor of St. Clairsville, said he's positive the city will win for tidiness. He said there's no litter in sight and that's one of the things judges are looking for.

Even though cities are fighting for bragging rights, the main purpose of the project is to make environments better in the United States and bring people in communities together.

"It would be great if we win, but we're not trying to get our hopes up," said Dennis Bigler, director of public services. "It's a lot of tough competition, but what we are using this for is a tool to improve the city for everyone who lives here."

Classen said that it's wonderful as a volunteer to do something like this because he knows it's contributing to the country being a better place.

"I think we all have to do what we can in this world to make a little bit of a positive change," Classen said.

Since the spring, about 1,800 volunteers hours went into getting St. Clairsville ready for the competition.

Judges will chose which city is No. 1 on Saturday.