Residents of Del Monte Village in west Phoenix have transformed a vacant city-owned water lot into a community garden, according to an announcement on May 26. The project began two years ago when Naomi, a neighborhood leader and passionate gardener, connected with Neighborhood Specialist Rosario Espinoza to learn about the City’s Gated Alley Program and other improvement resources.
Naomi hosted gatherings in her yard where neighbors discussed ideas for beautifying their area and building stronger relationships. These conversations helped bridge language and cultural differences among residents. During a neighborhood walk, Naomi identified the unused lot as a potential site for a community garden, asking, “What if this became a community garden?”
With support from the Neighborhood Services Department, several community partners, and District 4 Councilwoman Laura Pastor, neighbors worked together to address challenges such as leases and insurance requirements. Their efforts resulted in the creation of 12 community-built garden beds at the site. Additional expansions are planned for the future.
The Del Monte Village Garden Association’s project is highlighted as an example of successful collaboration between residents and city departments to improve neighborhoods. Naomi’s leadership is described as resilient and committed to creating something “for the community, by the community.”
Residents interested in similar projects are encouraged to contact their Neighborhood Specialist or visit the Neighborhood Services Department online for more information.
