We are writing as committed members of our neighborhood to express our strong support for workforce housing while also advocating for the preservation of a critical community space—our neighborhood garden.

Background: Need for Request

There is currently an active Request for Proposal to build workforce housing on lots including an existing community garden at 15th and Ogden Streets in Philadelphia.

Of the four lots that make up our community garden, we are only advocating for the preservation of two, allowing the remaining space to be used for workforce housing. This RFP designates 11 lots for development on the three blocks of Ogden St., including 2 directly across the street. Our request is not in opposition to affordable housing or of the new neighbors we are excited to welcome to our neighborhood, but rather an effort to ensure that green space remains a vital part of our neighborhood while still making room for much-needed affordable development.

We fully recognize the urgent need for affordable housing and deeply value efforts to make our city more inclusive and accessible to all. At the same time, welcoming new neighbors goes beyond providing housing—it also means ensuring they arrive in a community that fosters connection, well-being, and a sense of belonging. Green spaces, particularly those intentionally cultivated to serve the community, play a vital role in this. In our neighborhood, such spaces are exceedingly rare.

Background: The Growth of Our Community Garden

When we purchased our home in February 2020, the four lots currently listed on this RFP were abandoned, overgrown, and filled with trash. With no city plans in place for the space, we took action—hiring a trash truck to haul out debris, restoring the land, and researching how we could legally transform it into something valuable for the community. Through this research, we discovered Pennsylvania’s Right to Farm Law, which protects urban agriculture initiatives like ours. Under this law, we had the right to establish a community garden on vacant, neglected land, which allowed us to move forward with confidence.

During the pandemic, this space became a safe haven for neighbors to connect outdoors. In the years that followed, while many pandemic-era gardening efforts faded, we remained committed to fostering a lasting community resource. We expanded our efforts by:

• Joined local civic association (UFCA) and became Block Captain in order to better understand and support our community needs
• Built and maintained 15 garden beds
• Built a free herb garden for anyone to pick from
• Provided free soil, compost, mulch, seeds, and supplies to any neighbor who wanted to participate
• Purchased outdoor furniture and built picnic tables for folks to gather and relax
• Organized clean-ups and supply free doggie waste bags
• Hosted casual gatherings and block parties with free food
• Hosted seasonal events, including pumpkin painting and carving, as well as children's birthday celebrations
• Prioritized inclusivity, intentionally involving neighbors of diverse races, genders, socioeconomic backgrounds, and both long-term and new residents
• Assembled non-permanent, safe pathways that were wheelchair friendly for our local neighbor (whereas before, the sidewalk dipped by 6 inches and could not be used)

This garden has never been just about growing food—it has been about growing community.

The Importance of Green Spaces

Research consistently demonstrates that green spaces contribute significantly to the happiness and health of urban residents. They provide areas for recreation, promote mental well-being, and enhance the overall quality of life. In our neighborhood, such spaces are scarce, making the preservation of our community garden even more critical.

We acknowledge the city's responsibility to provide affordable housing and deeply respect the efforts toward a "cleaner, greener and safer Philadelphia." Our community garden aligns with this vision by offering clear environmental, social, and health benefits. Grid Magazine

Balancing Development and Community Needs

We believe that Philadelphia can be a leader in thoughtful urban planning, balancing the urgent need for workforce housing with the preservation of essential community spaces. We love that our neighborhood already includes a number of PHA housing units, and is looking to build workforce housing, demonstrating a strong commitment to affordability, equity and inclusivity. 

Our neighborhood contains several other vacant, blighted lots  that could be considered for development, allowing us to achieve both goals. If allowed, our community garden can continue (and continue to improve) our intentional initiatives around inclusivity, community building and engagement and health and well-being.

Precedents for Preservation

Philadelphia has already set commendable precedents in protecting community gardens:

• June 2023: The city reacquired liens on 91 parcels transformed into community gardens, recognizing their role in reducing violence, improving food access, and countering climate change. Council President Darrell Clarke emphasized that these gardens are neighborhood treasures that should remain under community stewardship.  ​Philadelphia City Council
• July 2024: Pennsylvania passed SB 645, making it easier for Philadelphians to claim legal ownership of abandoned vacant lots they have maintained as gardens. This law acknowledges the profound contributions of community members who have stewarded neglected land for a decade or more. ​The Public Interest Law Center
  Our Request

We respectfully ask that the city considers the following actions:

• Evaluate Alternative Sites – We would like the city to consider leaving the two lots (1544 & 1546 Ogden St) for a community garden and gathering space. Identify other vacant lots in our neighborhood suitable for workforce housing development while preserving our community garden.
• Engage with the Community – Involve neighborhood residents in discussions to find solutions that accommodate both affordable housing needs and the preservation of green spaces.
• Explore Legal Protections – Utilize existing legislation, such as SB 645, to protect and recognize the value of community gardens like ours. 

With thoughtful planning and collaboration, Philadelphia can continue to be a city that not only provides affordable housing but also preserves the green spaces that contribute to the health, happiness, and resilience of its residents.

Thank you for your time and consideration. We welcome the opportunity to discuss potential solutions in supporting our Francisville neighborhood.

Sincerely,
Ashley K. and Joe D. of Francisville, Philadelphia

For Reference, the list of addresses listed in this RFP for workforce housing in the immediate neighborhood (3 blocks of Ogden St) include:

• 841 N 16th St
• 845 N 16th St
• 851 N 16th St
• 863 N 15th St
• 1437 Ogden St
• 1438 Ogden St
• 1539 Ogden St
• 1544 Ogden St
• 1546 Ogden St
• 1610 Ogden St
• 1613 Ogden St