A community orchard project is underway in Garfield Park, Chicago, with the goal of reducing flooding and providing a space for gardening, recreation, and multigenerational programs. The Garfield Park Community Orchards project will transform 10 vacant lots along West 5th Avenue into a thriving green space.
Project Details
The project, led by local nonprofits Garfield Park Community Council and NeighborSpace, will feature about 50 fruit trees, berry bushes, and native plants such as serviceberries and hazelnuts. A play area and interactive experiences will allow residents to learn more about nature and gardening.
The orchard will also serve as a flood-prevention effort, increasing the tree canopy to hold and slow water, and providing permeable paving to absorb rainwater. The $2.2 million project is funded by a mix of city funding and nonprofit fundraising, with planting expected to begin this fall and construction completing by summer 2027.
Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.
