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Decatur Tree Garden Murals
Looking to fund a local artist to create signage for our arboretum that sits on former vacant and abandoned lots in the Carnes neighborhood
About the project
In December of 2017 and January of 2018, NPI partnered with Compost Fairy, Bridges USA, West Tennessee Urban Forestry Council, and neighborhood residents to plant over 100 trees at 5 contiguous vacant parcels that once contained dilapidated structures. We are currently in the process of getting the necessary tree labels and supplementary educational materials to apply for arboretum certification with the Urban Forestry Council.
To build pride around this growing community asset, we'd like to engage a local artist to design and paint a sign that lives up to the natural beauty of this site subsequently building neighborhood pride and ownership of the arboretum.
The Steps
Step 1: Procure all necessary supplies and materials for the artist to paint the sign - COMPLETE
Step 2: Install paneling and sign materials in the tree garden
Step 3: Find time for the artist to come out to the site and paint the sign
Step 4: Share the success of the project with all sponsors and partners
Why we‘re doing it
NPI's core mission to change the conversation around vacant and abandoned properties. We want to partner with local stakeholders to transform liabilities into assets. Researchers have shown that neighborhoods with maintained and cared for vacant lots, reduce perception of crime and increase overall quality of life for the residents living near these lots. That's why we do it. In disinvest areas you have to work hard to show people you truly care, and its that care that builds hope, trust, and ultimately collective action in our most vulnerable communities.