The community allotment garden in Kraków, named “Pod Gwiazdami” (Under the Stars), is steadily transforming from a construction site into a living, green space actively used by residents. A local operator was recently selected to manage the garden and is now fully engaged in implementing its activities. The operator has successfully recruited local residents as gardeners and is currently leading a training and onboarding process to help them take on their new roles as stewards of their individual plots.
Allotments have been assigned, and planting has officially begun. Gardeners are working based on signed agreements that outline shared responsibilities and rules for use. The site already features key infrastructure: a central gazebo for meetings and rest, a tool shed with basic equipment, numerous raised beds, a rainwater barrel system, and installed water and electrical infrastructure. Construction works are in their final stages, with only a few formalities remaining – notably, the signing of contracts with municipal utility providers for water and electricity services.
Despite still being in development, the garden is already fostering community life. The operator has begun organizing engagement activities, including onsite social events such as barbeques, to build a strong and welcoming atmosphere among gardeners.
One of the next milestones will be the completion of a playground directly adjacent to the garden. This space, funded by the local district, will help connect the garden more deeply with the broader neighborhood and encourage intergenerational use of the area.