Expanding Community Access to Land and Urban Agriculture

Background and context (including, if applicable, where this idea came from):
This proposal was generated in our first Food Access Working Group in February 2026.

Proposal (including what specifically the money would be spent on):
To meet the growing need for communal access to land, the city should invest in maintaining gardens and supporting composting and upkeep, expand models like the East Boston Greenway across neighborhoods, and fund public awareness efforts so that residents know about existing spaces rather than defaulting to building new ones. This initiative would include intensive urban agriculture education for those interested in growing food, ensuring that every resident, regardless of their experience, can cultivate and learn to maintain their own garden beds.

Proposal cost:
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City Department that would implement it (if known):
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People’s Budget values (for reference):

• Self-determination: We know what our communities need and we have the right to decide for ourselves.

• Transparency: We move with honesty and openness so everyone can see how decisions are made.

• Care: We keep each other safe through care / by meeting needs, not punishment.

• Solidarity: We show up for each other. None of us are free unless all of us are free!

• Community Wisdom: The people most affected by decisions should lead.

• Well-being: We deserve more than survival. Everyone should have what they need to live abundant, joyful lives.

Reminder: Residents will be asked to consider how proposals align with these values when you vote at the assembly on March 14 and to vote for proposals that align with the values.

How does this proposal align with the People’s Budget values?
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