City officials are preparing to launch a new community space that's a melding pot of Richmond culture - with programs, events, charity, education and beauty to be staples of the site.
The rooftop garden, which is still in the development stage, is located at Minoru Cultural Centre, a space that city officials felt would complement the artistic and green components of the garden.
It's intended to fill a need for more program space that city hall has noticed.
"Arts and culture is flourishing in Richmond right now. There's demand not only for innovative programming but also for space," said Camyar Chaichian, arts coordinator for the City of Richmond. "The Cultural Centre is a wonderful building, but we're literally bursting at the seams in terms of the desire for the community to use it."
Chaichian hopes the site will become a haven for community gatherings. One night, perhaps a movie will be screening, the next, a local band might play, with gardening, sustainability and other programs running during the rest of the week.
The plan for the garden has been shaping up for several years, developing to one which incorporates a new trend among cities of launching sustainability programs.
Locals may soon be able to visit the centre to learn about growing food in small spaces and gardening during the winter.
The city budgeted $150,000 for the project, saving some change by reusing old paving stones and decorations at other public locations.
That cost will translate into features at the site, including a community table made from recycled wood, trellises, a new entrance, a covered area with a mushroom log and other greenery. Harvested produce will be donated to Richmond charities.
Phase two of the project includes the establishment of a community culinary arts program on the site.
Currently, seedlings are being grown offsite, while the old concrete patio is being deconstructed.
Opening day for the garden is tentatively set for Sept. 17.
