Excelsior residents started the Athens Avalon Greenspace Project with the goal of transforming a long neglected public right-of-way into a vibrant, community-centered green space. We sat down with two of the leaders behind the project, Iran Narges and Pam Axelson, to learn more about how they did it!
“The area had long been a place where people dumped their garbage and junk. The steps running up the hillside were a graffiti spot, and the vegetation on the hillside was overgrown and invasive. The space was a constant mess for both neighbors and passersby.
This, along with some significant tragedies in our neighborhood in 2008, spurred the beginning of a neighborhood watch group to help increase local safety.
Not long after forming, our neighborhood watch group began to have discussions around how to improve the hillside, combat garbage, and build community cohesiveness. We shared our original vision without knowing much about how neighborhood projects are so transformative.
Neighbors began meeting on the first Saturday of every month to clean-up the space. Then, we began organizing to find funding, which ultimately came from many different sources, from public improvement money and Community Challenge Grants to garage sales.
At some point, we were introduced to SF Parks Alliance who gave us a better sense of what to do – how to plug into the City and seek grant opportunities. The Parks Alliance staff significantly helped us move the project along, without it completely taking over our lives.”
“Now, people on this street know each other way better than they did before. Most people are very happy that this serious eye sore is now a thing of the past.”
“Now, people on this street know each other way better than they did before. Most people are very happy that this serious eye sore is now a thing of the past. We have a more beautiful and welcoming neighborhood because of it.
I have seen so many more people enjoying the space. The tiles invite people to visit, children (and adults!) really gravitate towards the colors. The design was created before selfies and Instagram were a thing, but it’s become a selfie hot spot for dog portraits, fitness models, shoe designers, and more.
Still, this space will never be finished. We continue to host a monthly clean-up day. It’s a great chance for neighbors to get to know each other, make new friends, and connect. We continue to get new volunteers. We have monthly work day on the first Sunday of the month, so join us!
For those looking to start their own neighborhood project: consistency is key! Especially when you first establish your work days, that will help you create a core group of committed volunteers.
It’s normal to be skeptical about the reality of the project, but the strength of your group will make it happen. And don’t forget to have fun!”