Lafayette Greens

History

Lafayette Greens opened to the public in August of 2011. Since opening, the garden has produced over 2000 pounds of organic produce, all of which returns to Metro Detroit via Gleaners Community Food Bank, Freedom House, volunteers, and more. We also continuously host a variety of events, from educational sessions, to tastings, and more. Compuware Corporation created Lafayette Greens for a number of reasons: to beautify downtown Detroit in an innovative and hands-on manner; to create a space where employees, our downtown neighbors and visitors can learn about and enjoy gardening in an urban setting; and to encourage other downtown-based businesses and residents to reach out and transform the spaces that surround them. A Master Gardener with a vision of growing food in the central business district of Detroit, Compuware's Co-founder and Executive Chairman, Peter Karmanos, Jr. urged the project forward. With his support, the hybrid garden-park, Lafayette Greens, became a reality.

Specialties

Lafayette Greens, Compuware's Urban Garden, grows organic fruits, vegetables, herbs and flowers on 3/4 of an acre in downtown Detroit. Serving the public as a hybrid garden-park, the space is open and accessible to all. Lafayette Greens' 35 raised beds, fruit trees, and children's garden offer a green space for relaxation and more. Lafayette Greens works as a demonstration garden, offering volunteer opportunities, educational sessions, tastings, a farmers market and more. Come check us out!