The project was made possible with many kinds of support: Lowney Architecture, Rebecca’s employer, provided design work on a pro bono basis. Matthew Wolpe, a teacher at Laney College, provided shade structures for the site through design-build projects with his students. Students at CCA provided murals and a chicken coop. Metal gates were created by apprentices at the Crucible, another West Oakland institution. Funds for construction came through Proposition 84 grants in 2010. The playground was funded through a program organized by Kaboom, which connects corporate sponsors (in this case, PG&E) with local projects.
The local community was also involved in the design process. Multiple meetings with community members eventually gave rise to a community committee that met on a monthly basis. Now that the farm is up and running, volunteers continue to be important. Youth programs frequently come to work on the farm. Individual volunteers are also welcome. For more information on City Slicker Farms, including how to volunteer, see their website at http://www.cityslickerfarms.org/
As a side note, two other OWA+DP members, Allison Kinst and Cynthia Bathgate, are working on a residential project to be built in the lot immediately adjacent to the farm. It would be interesting to visit again once that is constructed.
Of course, at its heart the farm is not about the buildings, but the soil and what grows in it. Planting just started this spring. They have already been able to sell produce at their weekly farm stand, and we could see zucchini, kale, chard and tomatoes growing. An orchard along one edge of the property is still in its infancy, but will eventually provide fruit. Some rows are not yet planted, and some soil remained to be plowed. Rebecca was clearly excited to see the design realized in both built and living form.
We are eager to highlight the work of our members both in our programs and in this newsletter. If you have a project you would like to share with OWA+DP members, please contact the Program Coordinators to arrange a tour.