First Presbyterian Church of Oakland Completes Community Greenhouse Restoration

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Oakland ·

Oakland residents have a vibrant new green space to enjoy as First Presbyterian Church of Chicago recently completed the restoration of its historic greenhouse. The project, funded through the Shirley J. Newsome Beautification Program, has transformed the area surrounding the church into an accessible community greenspace featuring new landscaping, flower beds, and public seating areas.

The beautification effort includes installations of sculptural works from local artists-in-residence, creating not just a garden but a cultural gathering place for neighborhood residents. This project represents another positive step in Oakland's ongoing revitalization efforts that continue to transform this historic South Side community, which was once an elegant Victorian-style suburb and is now experiencing renewed growth with newly built homes and community-focused improvements.

Residents interested in visiting the new greenhouse and garden space can stop by the church located in Oakland. The project is part of a larger beautification initiative across the South Side, where the South East Chicago Commission has collectively granted more than

million in beautification funds since 1999 to enhance the physical attractiveness and quality of life in neighborhoods including Oakland, Hyde Park, Kenwood, Washington Park, and Woodlawn.

Sources:
1. https://secc-chicago.org/neighborhood-enhancement-grant/
2. https://www.dreamtown.com/neighborhoods/oakland