Northern Liberties Residents Fight To Save 'Spooky Garden'
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The property could probably generate tens of thousands of dollars for the city, but residents in Northern Liberties believe the value of the land can not be measured in dollars and cents.
However, they are running out of time to make their case.
In the early 1980's it was just another vacant lot and eye sore.
But neighbors adopted it, cleaned it up and turned it into a community garden and the popular Halloween destination spot known as 'Spooky Garden.'
But now neighbors feel their success story is being sold from right out underneath them.
Just a few days ago neighbors learned the city put the valuable Northern Liberties lot up for sale.
"We are all for the city raising money by selling vacant land, but vacant land that is blighted and underutilized," President of the Northern Liberties Neighbors Association Matt Ruben said.
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On Craigslist the city's Department of Public Property has open bids right now for the two parcels that make up the lot.
Since one of the bids closes Tuesday morning there is little time left.
"Now is the time to step up and help us," Ruben said.
Neighbors have been calling city councilman Darrell Clarke hoping he can help.
Instead of the lot being developed, people here are fighting to keep it a community garden.
Karyn Gerred tells Eyewitness News she's been part of efforts in the past to try and cut through all the red tape and acquire the land from the city, but has had no luck.
"This is a perfect example of what the best use for property is that can be green space for the community," said Gerred.
Neighborhood groups are looking to submit their own bid before Tuesday morning's deadline.
They hope the City might sell the land to them at a reduced price.
Reported by Todd Quinones, CBS 3
