People who spend time in Hartford — whether they live here, work here, shop here or just pass through — soon identify places that really need work. These places can be highway ramps, railroad rights-of-way, vacant lots, neglected school grounds or just pieces of property that seem to belong to nobody. For those of us who care about the city, they are just offensive. Those ugly bits tend to make us worry what others will think of our city. Now we have a way to make a difference. Thanks to support from United Technologies Corporation, you or your company or civic group, can select an eyesore and the Knox Parks Foundation’s Green Crew will take care of it. Our sixteen young crew members will clean it, plant it, paint it and/or care for it. Call us with your suggestion. Knox will prepare a plan and cost estimate. You pay half the cost and the grant from UTC will pay the other half. Your part may include volunteer time and/or in-kind contributions of materials or services. We will acknowledge your contribution and the support of UTC on a small sign at the site and in publicity materials about the program. Knox will handle all necessary permits, insurance, tools and materials.