Project team

Lead: 79th Street Green It Up Project

Partners: 79th Street Club, Faith Tabernacle Church, Totally Gospel Ministries, Solomon Movement, Sterling Elementary.

Project description and goals

The beautification project aims to bring a place of sustainable tranquility into a neighborhood lacking greenspace. Aesthetic and sustainable elements include a rain garden and pervious pavers, while a small gazebo will allow for the presence of capacity-building community events.

Existing conditions

The grassy lot (Parcel # 118-34-018) is located on E. 79th and Central Ave., and is across from the Faith Tabernacle Church. The lot’s size (10,000 sq. ft.), and its central location make it highly visible, while its position near an intersection makes it a gateway into the E. 79th Street Neighborhood.

Proposed interventions

After site preparation and grading, a rain garden will be grown. Installation of pervious pavers will provide for off-street parking and, with the garden, will act as a deterrent to storm water run-off.  In addition, a small pond will be installed on the lot as well as a gazebo. Surrounding the perimeter will be a bamboo fence.

Site maintenance

Weeding, mowing, and trash removal will be done by community members, with a time-log established for structure. Watering will be done on-site, with the use of a nearby hydrant.