Growing the Space for What Comes Next

The Grant Street Community Garden at 805 Simmons Street is coming to life through the work of neighbors, volunteers, and our partners at Monument of Faith Church. Over the past year, community members have helped clear the space, shape the garden’s design, and prepare it to become a place where neighbors can grow food, gather, and learn from one another.

As we plan the next phase, two priorities are clear: a new fence and a reliable water source. We’ve received quotes for both the fence and an irrigation system that would bring water to the raised beds and provide hose access throughout the garden. Depending on the fence we choose, the current estimates for these two projects total approximately $20,300–$22,000. We’ll confirm updated pricing before any work begins.

We’re encouraged that Durham Community Land Trustees (DCLT) has an additional $4,500 that could be donated toward garden infrastructure and irrigation. We’ve also heard from a potential donor who may be willing to contribute more to help make these improvements possible. Those conversations are still underway, and we’ll share more when the details are settled.

Brittaney Robinson-Whitenhill of Our Backyard has helped us gather quotes and offered professional guidance as we think through the garden’s infrastructure and long-term care. We’re grateful for her partnership and for the many neighbors who continue to give their time to this space.

The garden is part of a larger vision for Grant Street. Alongside growing food and creating a welcoming gathering place at 805 Simmons Street, the community hopes to acquire the nearby properties at 807 Simmons Street and 602 E. Umstead Street for garden expansion and affordable housing.

This work will continue beyond the garden’s opening. It will take steady care, resources, and the leadership of people who call this neighborhood home. We’re excited to keep building it together.