Literacy for Environmental Justice (LEJ) is on target to complete a rainwater harvest system, native plant demonstration area, expanded community gardens, native plant nursery infrastructure, and an educational and gathering space for community residents. Through this project, we’re trying to reduce the impact to the sewer system and build a green infrastructure showcase for the community to learn and engage with while providing equitable access to nature and community space.
This grant project was initiated approximately 8 or 9 years ago in response to public input through the State Parks General Plan. LEJ took initiative to heed public comment and launched an ambitious project to expand the native plant nursery and community garden. This project is not only a capital improvement project, it is also designed to engage residents and youth in environmental stewardship, education, and workforce development. Now, almost 7 years later, we are nearing completion of the project.
In spring 2022, LEJ began the community build-out stage where LEJ workforce development young adult interns and community volunteers are helping build and plant the site to prepare for the public re-opening. This summer LEJ completed 18 new garden boxes that are already in use by new District 10 community residents with a majority of the new gardeners from the Alice Griffith Public Housing across the street from the garden.
We are nearing completion of the initial plans for the expansion project and anticipate celebrating the success of the project with a gathering in the coming months!
