AGROW PARK is organized using the agricultural concept of row planting as a framework for directing on-site resources and facilitating neighborhood interaction, contribution and awareness. Local materials and plants are arranged to address specific site concerns, and establish notions of cyclical use and regeneration. These relationships are further articulated through considerations of resource-reuse, site remediation, and community engagement.

RESOURCE-REUSE
Water accumulation on site is directed through five hardscape strips which are infused with recyclable material, to a wetland fringe where it is filtered and retained for extended periods of time. Purified wetland water is either pumped to a hose bib where it may be reused for irrigating plants, or allowed to slowly drain and recharge the underground aquifer.

SITE REMEDIATION
Contaminated urban sites often require raised clean beds of soil for garden plantings. Overtime even new soil can become infected. This condition can be reversed by planting rows of remediation plants which naturally cleanse the soil. Dictated by the found contaminants, plants can shift location and type.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
The park’s landscape will serve less in its permanence and more in its ability to stimulate ideas and awareness. Community engagement is encouraged through adaptable use and community determined growth over time. Gardens, benches, picnic tables, a grill, and open spaces are the initial elements which encourage use but are intended only as the start of a collaborative neighborhood vision. Signage throughout the park informs visitors of the roles and values of people and the environment.

Simple construction types and local materials encourage involvement during construction and promote long term maintenance. The images above describe the assembly of rammed earth site components by kids from the neighborhood. A toolbox is provided on site to assist in routine care for garden beds. The flower and herb planter box along Central Park Ave. serves as a colorful advertisement to passing motorists and provides a structure for the display of local works of art.