By Barbara Halpern

There are many benefits awarded to CCRA members. But we represent the entire community, not just our members. So, each year five garden plots (four 10X10 and one 10X15) in the Schuylkill River Park Community Garden (25th and Spruce St) are awarded to non-members of the Center City Residents’ Association (CCRA) for a one season term. Members, alternatively, are eligible for a 6 year plot at the garden, and don’t risk a lottery to get their plot (although there’s currently a wait list). For all the labor involved in creating your garden, membership is clearly the best deal! 

To be eligible for the lottery for a one year plot, candidates must be bona fide residents of CCRA’s geographic boundaries (Schuylkill River to the West side of Broad St; between the North side of South and the South side of John F. Kennedy Boulevard). Winners pay a one-time fee of $65 for 10X10 and $85 for 10X15 plot. 

To enter the lottery, please send an email with your name, address and phone number to centercity@centercityresidents.org with the subject line “garden lottery”: Requests must reach the destination by March 1, 2023. The drawing will take place in early March and winners will be contacted by phone or email.

One entry per household. If you are a member of CCRA and are interested in becoming eligible for a six year plot, send an email to centercity@centercityresidents.org with your name, address and phone number, with subject line “garden wait list”.