It is a novel concept that has been cultivated into great successes in other communities, so Ironton’s first community garden has the chance to grow into something special as long as that first word — community — is truly a part of the project.

Next spring, a 44-by-132-foot vacant lot on the corner of Seventh and Adams streets will be transformed into a public planting area for those who may not have the opportunity to do so elsewhere.

The property is owned by Our Lady of Bellefonte Hospital and will be handled as a partnership between the Ironton in Bloom beautification organization and OLBH’s Healthy Community Initiative.

The lot will be divided into approximately 30 raised beds with gravel paths between the beds. The gardens will be handicapped accessible.

There will be running water available on the site and a shed with individual lockers so gardeners can lock up their tools.

This project is very unique in that it will help some individuals who wouldn’t be able to otherwise to put food on the table, it will beautify a vacant lot and help instill a sense of pride by individuals showing off their green thumbs.

We often say that our community will only move forward if we do so together and through unique partnerships.

This is a perfect example and we look forward to bountiful harvest.