How a vacant lot became a thriving community garden in the heart of Greenpoint.

Our Roots

Once the site of a single-family home, 61 Franklin Street in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, stood as an overgrown, unused lot for many years. Owned by the NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD), the space awaited transformation. On May 15, 2013, with the support of Council Member Steve Levin, NYC Parks GreenThumb, and 596 Acres, local community members gained access to the lot. Neighbors quickly came together to clear debris, remove graffiti, and construct raised garden beds, with assistance from Build It Green. This collaborative effort marked the beginning of a thriving community garden.

How We Grow Together

Our garden thrives on active member participation, collaboration, and a shared commitment to sustainability and community.

  1. Members meet regularly for workdays, harvests, barbecues, and garden updates. Everyone has full access to the space to compost, pick produce, or simply enjoy nature. Each member completes one monthly work shift during open hours: Saturdays & Sundays, 10 AM–6 PM.

  2. We encourage all members to join a committee to help bring projects to life. Whether you’re into plants, events, education, or design, there’s a place for you. Our committees include: Education, Construction & Landscaping, Planting, Compost, Special Events, and Social Media & Design.

  3. Our Advisory Board, made up of long-time members, provides guidance on garden operations, help coordinate projects, and support long-term planning and strategy.

Our Board

Our board is made up of dedicated volunteers who help keep the garden growing — each bringing unique skills and a shared commitment to community, sustainability, and education.

  • Shaun Dubreuil | Membership & Outreach Committee

  • Lori Vroegindewey | Education & Youth Committee

  • Sunil Devadanam | Irrigation Committee 

  • Andy Glass | Member Engagement Committee

  • Priya Gupta | Compost Committee

  • Baruch Stern | Planting Committee

  • Roshan Shah | Programming & Events Committee

  • Natalia Correa | Communications & Social Media Committee