Construction Begins on Edison’s First Community Garden

Elected officials and non-profit leaders attend groundbreaking

EDISON, NJ — On Tuesday, April 19th, construction began on Edison’s highly anticipated community garden in Swales Park, the first of its kind in the township. All Edison residents will be eligible to apply for a spot in this 38-bed garden, where they can grow healthy vegetables and fruit alongside their friends and neighbors.

“As I’ve said many times since my inauguration, we’re focused on actually getting things done, said Edison Mayor Sam Joshi. “And this community garden is just another example of this commitment. The garden and other improvements to swales park will uplift the entire neighborhood and form a sense of pride in the area. This is a very exciting occasion and something that will truly improve the quality of life for residents.”

The garden will feature a shed so residents can store their supplies, as well as work tables where they can get to know each other while working side by side. The Edison Arts Society has also agreed to organize a mural competition to decorate the community garden. Although the garden is being built by the Township, a nonprofit will run it.

“It is absolutely gratifying to see Edison’s first community garden come to fruition. We thank Mayor Joshi and the administration for making this happen in the very first week of office. We want this garden to be a place where the residents come together not just to grow food but also to grow as a community. ” said Jothi Kesavan, President of the nonprofit organization, the Edison Community Garden Initiative (ECGI). “We’ve already worked out the process for residents to apply for a garden bed and a few will be set aside to grow produce for local food pantries.”

In addition to the community garden, the nearby volleyball court at Swales Park will be replaced with a new and improved sand volleyball court, a new walking path shaded with trees will be placed along the perimeter of the park, and the baseball diamond will get a proper backstop creating the perfect place for informal games.

“We have been advocating for a community garden for some time and I’m very excited to see these wonderful changes coming to Swales Park.  I am receiving lots of positive comments from the neighbors who are looking forward to the garden” said Sally Yabra, Officer, Public Relations, ECGI. “Mayor Joshi is demonstrating a real commitment to improving the quality of life for Edison residents, and generations of families will benefit from the community garden and the other major improvements to Swales park.”

Those interested in applying for a garden bed should visit: www.edisoncommunitygardens.org