In Trohe, the electricity is more colourful than anywhere else: at least that's the impression anyone who drives through the smallest district of Buseck gets. The village has dressed up for its 800th birthday and decorated almost all 42 electricity and telecommunications switch boxes with colourful works of art. "We're still working on the last ones," explains initiator Judy Seufert, an American who has lived in Trohe with her German husband for 16 years. The original motifs were designed by Trohe residents. The painters also come exclusively from the village. Stadtwerke Gießen (SWG) is delighted with the embellishment of its electrical distribution systems. Matthias Acker, deputy press spokesman for SWG, says: "We spontaneously thought it was a great idea and not only agreed to the painting of our switch boxes, but also gave the switch boxes a thorough clean and donated paints and brushes. We value voluntary work that improves the quality of life in our supply area. That's why we are happy to support such projects." The municipal energy supplier donated 650 euros for the project and also replaced five older switch cabinets in the course of the painting. SWG has organised such a painting competition itself in recent years, the results of which can be admired in Seltersweg. It has also sponsored several painting events - mostly organised by schools.
"It was incredible fun," says initiator Judy Seufert. Around twenty Troh residents - from kindergarten groups and schoolchildren to very elderly pensioners - have actively participated in the beautification of their home village. "Our village has become even prettier. Many visitors and locals confirmed this last weekend at the 800th birthday events," says Judy Seufert happily. The residents have also grown closer together as a result of this campaign, she says. "I've got to know so many people through the project. That's nice."
A get-together with all active and passive participants is planned at the end of the painting campaign. Judy Seufert is already looking forward to it: "On this occasion, we will walk through the streets together and have each individual artist and painter explain why they chose this motif or that particular switch box." SWG will not miss out on the tour either - even though it already knows the motifs. The Trohers had to have them approved beforehand. That was the only condition imposed by the regional supplier