O Street Neighbors Transform Vacant Lot into Green Escape

A vacant lot at 2718-2720 O Street serves as a community gathering space and garden instead of a neighborhood blight thanks to the work of neighbors.

Now in its third year, the garden has a variety of small shrubs, several plots with herbs and an antique gate to create a sense of place in the 3,600 square-foot lot on O Street near .

The lot — owned by Ellie Galidas whose mailing address is in Rockville, Md. — is listed as "vacant," according to D.C. Property records. 

David Dunning, one of the primary gardeners, told Patch the neighbors struck a deal with Galidas. The community would put in the time, work and money to make the lot into a more appealing presence on the street if she would let them use it for garden space.

When they first planned the space, neighbors considered several lofty garden additions, like a compost pile or a beehive. But in the end, they decided to keep it simple. Herbs, lettuces and a more pleasing space to the eye.

Check out photos of the lot it became a community garden.