Community Garden Taking Shape

Three months ago Rebecca Hilton approached the Gallatin Avenue Concerned Citizens Association (GACCA) about developing a community garden, “I wanted to give children an opportunity to learn the joys of gardening as well as to grow nutritious pesticide-free food for local residents”.  The group had discussed the idea of a garden a in the past , and was most appreciative that someone was stepping forward to spearhead the effort.  The group decided upon an empty lot at 26 Lincoln Street, which was formerly the location of a vacant and dilapidated home that was demolished last year by the City of Uniontown, thanks to funding secured by the Redevelopment Authority of the City of Uniontown.

Presently the 25’x100’ lot features 16 4’x12’ beds planted with tomatoes, pumpkins, peppers, cabbage, brussel sprouts, beans, corn, and flowers.  GACCA members helping Rebecca Hilton in the construction of the garden include President Chris Jones and his wife Sarah, and Randy and Tammy Eicher.  The Eichers live on Lincoln Street and have donated the use of their tools and water to the garden.  Other neighbors, including Linda have also participated.  “This is a neighborhood project.  We are inviting residents to participate, who can be rewarded for their efforts with some fresh fruits and vegetables” said Rebecca Hilton.

Also helping out are juveniles doing community service work through the Fayette County Office of Juvenile Probation. 

The Community Foundation of Fayette County and Fay-Penn Economic Development Council have generously donated to the construction of the garden.  This funding has been used for the purchase of mushroom compost, mulch, and landscaping fabric.  To date, all of the plants and seeds have been donated.

Clara Pascoe, Executive Director of the Community Foundation of Fayette County, was excited to be involved in the project: “The CFFC is very pleased to be part of the “greening” of Fayette County, and the new community garden will be a wonderful addition to the neighborhood.”

Bob Junk, Local Economy Manager for the Fay-Penn Economic Development Council, said:  “The grant is part of Fay-Penn’s Fayette County Buy Local Network campaign created to help ensure the survival of our small towns, local businesses and family farms.  Producing and buying local will also improve the health of our residents and the environment”.  

GACCA and RACU have been working together to revitalize the Gallatin Avenue Neighborhood.  This includes securing funding for extra police equipment and staffing, demolishing vacant and dilapidated buildings, holding community events like car shows and the Gallatin Avenue Pumpkin Festival, and supporting the construction of new housing.

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