The Resiliency Center
Spring has brought exciting progress to North Richmond Farm. Highlights include the completion of an outdoor chicken run built by Boy Scouts from Lafayette, providing a safe and engaging space for both chickens and visitors.
Landscaping efforts are flourishing around the History Walk, Dr. Henry Clark Plaza, and Whitney Dotson Garden, with native plants nurtured by hundreds of volunteers and Urban Tilth’s Watersheds Team now taking root.
A major milestone was reached with the pouring of 99 cubic yards of concrete to form the foundation of the Community Resiliency Center. Beneath this foundation, plumbing and electrical work have been installed, preparing for a resilient, fully functional space at the heart of the farm.
Installation has also begun on the History Walk’s first section, featuring an ADA-accessible path inspired by traditional Ohlone basketry patterns, designed by Bay Tree Design. This walkway will stretch from the entrance at Fred Jackson Way all the way to San Pablo Creek, welcoming all visitors with an accessible, beautiful design. Additionally, permeable pavers that allow stormwater filtration have been installed in the driveway and plaza areas, supporting sustainability and aquifer health.
However, the project now faces a significant challenge. The cancellation of a critical $19 million EPA Community Change Grant, part of the Inflation Reduction Act, leaves only the building foundation completed for the Community Resiliency Center. This grant was key to funding the construction of the Community Resiliency Center, a space meant to empower, offer refug,e and serve the community living in the shadow of polluting industries.
With this setback, Urban Tilth is calling on the community to help keep this vision alive. Please consider signing our petition and supporting this work in the days, weeks, and months ahead. Click here to learn more about the Resiliency Center.
