Project EverGreen completes 10th community garden renovation in New York City

Project EverGreen, in partnership with the New York City Parks Department’s GreenThumb division, completed its 10th GreenCare for Communities renovation project in New York City: the transformation of the Corona Peach Tree Community Garden in Corona, Queens. The renovation was completed on Sept. 17. 

With an estimated project value of $50,000 and $30,000 in volunteer time, this effort marks the first GreenCare for Communities project in Queens and underscores the power of healthy green spaces to create greener, healthier, cooler communities, according to the organization.

Nestled beside Louis Simone Park, the Corona Peach Tree Community Garden is a small but vibrant oasis where neighbors grow food, connect with nature and celebrate community. Volunteer gardeners often share fresh produce, honey and even tours with visitors. Project EverGreen stated garden is more than just green space; it is a place for families to learn, children to explore and neighbors to gather, as well as a respite from the heat of the city. 

Project scope 

The renovation focused on access, growing capacity and long-term durability: 

• Installed 100 feet of ADA-friendly pathways made from brick and bluestone to improve safety and accessibility. 
• Constructed and filled 15 new raised planting beds to expand food production and improve soil health. 
• Planted approximately 100 pollinator-friendly plants to add beauty, biodiversity and resilience. 

These improvements ensure that the Corona Peach Tree Community Garden thrives as a welcoming, functional and sustainable space for years to come. 

Why green spaces matter 

In a dense urban environment like New York City, community gardens deliver outsized benefits: 

• Cleaner air and cooler blocks through reduced heat island effects. 
• Better stormwater management and flood prevention. 
• Improved public health, with access to nature linked to lower stress and more opportunities for physical activity. 
• Increased food access and education through community-grown produce. 
• Strengthened biodiversity and pollinator support. 
• Greater community cohesion, safety, and pride of place. 

“Every renovation brings not just new pathways or planting beds, but a stronger, healthier and more connected community,” said Cindy Code, executive director of Project EverGreen. “The Corona Peach Tree Community Garden is a perfect example of how green spaces can transform lives and neighborhoods.”

Corona Peach Tree marks Project EverGreen’s 10th New York City community garden renovation. Past projects include Liberty Island (2014), Clinton Community Garden (2018-19), Jackie Robinson Community Garden (2020), Wishing Well Community Garden (2021), Bradhurst Garden (2022), Pappa and Momma Jones Historical Garden (2023) and Joe Holzka Community Garden (2024). 

“Community gardens are labors of love. Having highly skilled volunteers create new pathways, raised beds and gathering spaces makes a huge difference in ensuring these green oases are accessible and welcoming for all New Yorkers,” said Carlos Martinez, chief of NYC Parks GreenThumb. “We are proud to celebrate our 10th collaboration with Project EverGreen at the Corona Peach Tree Community Garden, helping bring the gardeners’ vision to life and strengthening this space as a resource for the entire community.” 

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