In 2011, folks from the Friends of the Pawtuxet and the Pawtuxet Village Farmer’s Market, along with a few very determined local residents, established the first community garden in Cranston. The Edgewood Community Garden at Cherry Woods sits atop a reclaimed parking lot at the Edgewood Highland Elementary School. There are thirty-three 4′ x 16′ garden plots for area residents to grow organic products for personal use.
This garden exists through the dedication of a hardcore band of neighborhood volunteers. An experimental plot in the garden helps supports school programs that raise interest about growing food. Next efforts include installing new fencing around the garden and landscaping with native vegetation during the summer of 2017.
The on-going assistance of the City of Cranston has been critical to the success of the Edgewood Community Garden at Cherry Woods. The Department of Public Works initially removed and disposed of the asphalt parking lot, on which the above-ground planting beds are placed. The City also provided soil and for the raised beds and mulch was donated by Tom’s Trees. The City also collects garden debris on an on-going basis and provided a much-needed outdoor water source for gardeners. A garden shed was purchased in 2016 with City impact funds, which provides for storage and a work area for gardeners.
For current Edgewood Community Garden at Cherry Woods activities, please visit their Facebook page.
