Project team

Head: Asian Services in Action

Partners: St. Clair Superior Development Corporation

Project description and goals

A community garden is proposed to: (a) give healthy choice eating options at no cost to community members, and (b) to provide a community space where people can gather. The goal includes investing in the quality of life for those in the neighborhood through nutrition, exercise, and companionship.

Existing conditions

The 5,160 sq. ft. site (parcel #102-28-129) is located on E. 32nd Street in the Asia Town neighborhood. The site is in between two residential houses, and is in proximity to a number of active Asia Town community members.

Proposed interventions

Raised beds will be created to provide a lead-abated soil, with vegetables being the main crop.  Vegetable selection will be driven by the goal of enabling greater access to the native diets of the community members. As well, beautification will supplement food access with the plantings of wildflowers, and also the creation of crushed gravel paths leading to the newly installed picnic areas. Lastly, a shed will be built to house tools, and fence will be constructed to edge the space. 

Site maintenance

Maintenance will include debris removal and up-front duties related to the creation of the garden itself.  Longer-term duties include garden maintenance, especially weeding, seeding, and harvesting.  Schedules will be developed to coordinate the efforts between the neighbors, with the neighborhood high school students having particularly active roles.  Watering will be provided by a nearby fire hydrant.