Some Flat Rock residents are celebrating Earth Day by taking the first step to creating the Flat Rock community garden. They started early, digging up and tilling the grass covered land that is planned to become a shining spot in the community.
The community garden is going to be divided into six 20×20 plots. These will turn into either four 10×10 plots or two 10×20 plots. The garden will have an alleyway running up the middle, with benches lining the path, and a fountain in the front.
According to Sean Gillaspie, only ten plots have been sold so far. This means that there are still 30 spaces available. Residents can buy a plot(s) up until June 1st.
Andrea Reilly, a chair member for Support Local Flat Rock, was working hard to create her future garden.
“I really want to do peppers and tomatoes. It lets me have the garden dream I’ve always wanted.”
Stay at home mom, Sarah Riley, was working hard to create her family’s garden. She dug away to help start a garden for her children. Riley said that even though she has her own garden at home, she wants her to kids to have one just for them.
“I wanted to get my kids involved. I wanted my kids to know what hard work is and get them involved in growing their own fruits and vegetables of their choice.”
But ultimately, these volunteers are participating in the community garden because they want to help improve downtown Flat Rock.
“I like doing this stuff because I want to make Flat Rock a more walkable city,” said Reilly.
Lifelong Flat Rock resident, Abby Gibson, agrees.
“I think it will help get some of the residents out, and together. It is something they can do as a community and have pride in.”
To volunteer or buy a plot, email Gillaspie at supportlocal@outlook.com. The cost of the plots are 10×10 for $10 and a 10×20 for $20. The community garden is located on Gibraltar Road, next to the old Pj’s Cafe.