Lentol Garden Renovation

In 2018, through a competitive process, GrowNYC received a $99,241 GCEF grant (and provided $137,671 in matching funds) to renovate and upgrade the 35,000-square-foot Lentol Garden, spur community involvement in the garden, and create a neighborhood gathering spot. The renovation transformed several dark and shady areas of the garden, and created several new areas for visitors and events. In addition, funding was used to create a rain garden, repair the existing rainwater harvesting system, and layout and install an irrigation system. A stone retaining wall and a terraced garden were installed to address erosion issues; a bog garden and pollinator garden were created; woody shrubs and understory trees were planted; educational signage and additional seating were installed; and pathways were built allowing movement throughout the entire garden. These garden upgrades encouraged 50 new members to join and hundreds of new visitors.

• Repaired the garden’s rainwater harvesting system, which collects 3,000 gallons of rainwater annually, and installed an irrigation system for garden watering
• Installed 40 linear feet of stone retaining wall to address erosion
• Added a cedar log fence to create 315 linear feet of pathways
• Installed a picnic table and 12 benches in the garden
• Created 2,000 square feet of terraced garden area and a bog garden
• Installed 700 square feet of habitat to support pollinator plants
• Planted 35 mature woody shrubs and understory trees, and 350 medium-sized perennials, natives, and pollinator plants
• Installed educational signage at 10 locations around the garden
• Inspired 50 Greenpoint residents to become new garden members, who volunteer on weekends to maintain the space
• Attracted 1,750 visitors annually