Project EverGreen makes headway on Detroit park

Pictured above: Local businesses and Pingree Park neighbors cleaned up debris from trees that were pruned in the park.

DETROIT – Earlier this fall, Project EverGreen received a contribution from Magna International to support its efforts to renovate Pingree Park in Detroit. The nonprofit, in collaboration with business partners such as Magna International, community groups and the city of Detroit, started the renewal of the 18-acre park Nov. 3-4. About 200 volunteers pruned and planted trees, filled in ruts in the natural grass playing area, painted backstops and removed weeds and sticks from the playground.

The project, however, is more than an aesthetic makeover for this park, as it represents the revival of a community hub that serves as a gathering area for generations of east side Detroit residents and new families moving into the Pingree Park neighborhood.

“Pingree Park and its neighbors are the real winners,” said Cindy Code, executive director of Project EverGreen. “The improved space generates enough oxygen for nearly 15,000 people per day, and the living, breathing park functions as the lungs of the surrounding neighborhood.”

The renovation work will boost the health and well-being of the neighborhood, raise home values and serve as a spark for nearby development. They will also provide increased safety for kids playing on the grass sports fields and establish a community hub for residents to connect with one another.

“We’re passionate about our community and in keeping our neighborhoods healthy and beautiful and we know how lucky we are to make a living in the landscape industry,” said Matt Scott, director of operations for Troy Clogg Landscape Associations, the lead contractor for the project. “It was great to see local residents, businesses and community groups working side-by-side with Project EverGreen and our team.”

Plans for the second phase of the project call for creating new walking paths, building a grass amphitheater and planting new trees on E. Forest Avenue. These updates will take place in spring 2018.

Presenting sponsors included Magna International and Lear Corporation. Supporting sponsors included Billy Goat, City of Detroit Parks & Recreation Department, Cool Planet, Greenworks, Kujo Yard Wear, Lush Lawn, MACC Development, Michigan Nursery & Landscape Association, Nufarm, Pingree Park Community Group, PBI Gordon, Real Green Systems, Spring-Green, Superior Groundcover, The Davey Tree Expert Co., Troy Clogg Landscape Associates and Weed Man.