Downtown Tempe Urban Garden Debuts Tomorrow

At some point in the future, it's slated to become a Marriott Hotel, but for now, an empty lot in the middle of downtown Tempe is getting a new life as the Downtown Tempe Urban Garden, a community food source operated by more than 70 local volunteers. Called "the first...

By Michele Laudig

February 19, 2010

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At some point in the future, it's slated to become a Marriott Hotel, but for now, an empty lot in the middle of downtown Tempe is getting a new life as the Downtown Tempe Urban Garden, a community food source operated by more than 70 local volunteers. Called "the first of its kind in Arizona," the garden makes its debut tomorrow at 5th Street and Forest.

The garden is a collaboration between Downtown Tempe Community, GreenZona, Grow Well Arizona, Desert Appeal, and chef Payton Curry from nearby Caffe Boa. The concept utilizes raised plant beds that can be easily moved to another location when the lot is ready to be developed.

For the opening event, scheduled from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Tempe Mayor Hugh Hallman will give a welcome speech to volunteers, Curry will do cooking demonstrations with produce from the garden, and kids will run a lemonade stand to solicit donations for the garden.

In addition, Caffe Boa will host a fundraising lunch ($55 per person) from noon to 3 p.m. on Sunday, March 7.

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