Seeing gardens in the blight

The number of vacant lots visible on a city's streets is an indicator of a neighborhood's neglect. But the lots also provide an otherwise unavailable opportunity: to fill up the empty spaces with vegetable gardens. The Oakland City Council modified regulations to allow gardeners to grow vegetables on vacant lots and sell without a permit, as long as they receive permission from the property owner. Will Richmond also build up its empty lots? “The city is in support of anything that will improve or stabilize the community. We would much rather see a beautiful green community garden than a ugly lot that’s full of trash and debris.” The story and a photo essay about greening vacant lots, on Richmond Pulse.