Project EverGreen, in collaboration with local business partners, community groups and the city of Detroit, began transforming Detroit’s Pingree Park by planting trees, improving grass play areas and painting backdrops.
“This is the boost we needed to help return Pingree to its former glory. Our kids and grandkids grew up here. I’m just so happy,” said Minnie Knox, a 50-year resident of the neighborhood.
The renewal of the 18-acre park began Nov. 3-4 with about 200 volunteers taking part in the project.
“We’re passionate about our community and in keeping our neighborhoods healthy and beautiful, and we know how lucky we are to make a living in the landscape industry,” said Matt Scott, director of operations for Troy Clogg Landscape Associates, the lead contractor for the project. “It was great to see local residents, businesses and community groups working side by side with Project EverGreen and our team. It was very rewarding.”
More than just an aesthetic makeover, the project represents the revival of a community hub that serves as a gathering area for generations of east side Detroit residents and new families moving into the Pingree Park neighborhood, according to Project EverGreen.
The renovation is also meant to spark nearby development and provide increased safety for kids playing on the grass sports fields, Project EverGreen said.
“Pingree Park and its neighbors are the real winners,” said Cindy Code, executive director of Project EverGreen. “The improved space generates enough oxygen for nearly 15,000 people per day, and the living, breathing park functions as the lungs of the surrounding neighborhood.”
Plans for the second phase of the project call for creating new walking paths, building a grass amphitheater and planting new trees on East Forest Avenue. These updates are scheduled to take place in the spring of 2018.
Presenting sponsors include Magna International, which contributed $100,000 to the project, and Lear Corporation.
Click here for a full list of supporting and food sponsors.
Photo: Project EverGreen
