Del Monte Village Residents Transform Vacant City Lot Into Thriving Community Garden

What began with one resident’s desire to create a cleaner, safer neighborhood has grown into a flourishing community driven garden project in west Phoenix.

Two years ago, Naomi, a neighborhood leader in the Del Monte Village area of Maryvale, connected with her Neighborhood Specialist, Rosario Espinoza, to get more information about the City’s Gated Alley Program and other neighborhood improvement resources. A passionate gardener with an interest in growing food, Naomi soon began hosting gatherings in her yard where neighbors could discuss ideas to beautify and strengthen their community. These conversations helped build new relationships and trust among neighbors, bridging language and cultural differences.

During a neighborhood walk, Naomi pointed out a vacant City-owned water lot and asked a simple but powerful question: “What if this became a community garden?”

With support from the Neighborhood Services Department (NSD), several community partners, and District 4 Councilwoman Laura Pastor, neighbors worked together to turn that idea into reality. They navigated challenges of leases, insurance requirements, and approvals and today, the site is home to 12 community-built garden beds with more additions planned for the future.

The Del Monte Village Garden Association’s success is one of many examples across Phoenix demonstrating what can happen when residents partner with NSD to bring their ideas to life. Naomi’s leadership, resilience, and commitment to creating something “for the community, by the community” continue to inspire those around her.

Residents interested in improving their own neighborhoods are encouraged to connect with their Neighborhood Specialist and explore available programs and resources.

Learn more:

• Find your Neighborhood Specialist
• Visit the Neighborhood Services Department online
• Learn more about the Del Monte Village Community Garden