We started working with the Brook Gardens community in 2019. Community members were co-creators in this project to create more resilient and livable outdoor spaces. Residents set priorities for the landscape design, which includes a nature play area (our first!) for the many children who live here, additional playground equipment, shade trees and picnic tables. As of 2022, there were 11 rain gardens with accessible pathways and a native garden, all planted with pollinator-friendly species. The rain gardens help prevent pollution by diverting rainwater from entering Shingle Creek, which flows next to Brook Gardens, and the plantings provide habitat for pollinators. We hired resident project stewards to engage their neighbors in the project and help organize community events. We also trained and hired residents to work alongside us during installation and for long-term maintenance. This project received a 2022 Environmental Initiative Award for its local sustainability impacts.

Read our blog post about this project.