BOSTON (WBZ NewsRadio) — An old vacant parking lot in Roxbury has been transformed into an urban oasis.
The space in the Grove Hall neighborhood went unused for years until neighbors formed a partnership with the Boston Food Forest Coalition (BFFC), Sonoma Maple Schuyler Tenants Association, and Project R.I.G.H.T.
Soon the Maple Street Food Forest was born, and the area has become a food forest park filled with fruit and nut trees, along with plants and shrubs that support a habitat of birds, bees, and butterflies.
Liz Luc Clowes is the BFFC Engagement and Construction Director. "When you are in the middle, you really feel like you are in an oasis," she said.
She explained how the park was designed. "A food forest is a planting technique that mimics the natural forest with its multiple layers."
A gazebo and benches were built for people to be able to sit and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature just two blocks from Blue Hill Avenue.
Luc Clowes added that the food forest is not only a place for people to gather and enjoy themselves, but they can also learn how to harvest the crops that are grown in the park.
The grand opening is Saturday, June 29.
It includes a welcoming ceremony, food, and interactive workshops.
WBZ NewsRadio's Emma Friedman (@EmmaFriedmanWBZ) reports.