Hampstead Hill Academy Expansion = I Wonder Garden Donation

Hampstead Hill Academy, the neighborhood charter school at 500 S. Linwood, is expanding its footprint to include a gymnasium, a classroom, and bathrooms. The new wing will take the place of the former garden and playground located between Linwood Avenue and Streeper Street along Fleet Street. Construction began on March 18, 2024, and is projected to last through August 2025.

Principal Hornbeck shares, “Hampstead Hill is excited to finally break ground on the much-anticipated new gymnasium being built on our block. By now, you have no doubt seen the construction. We’re excited to work with Whiting-Turner to complete the project in the next year. In the meantime, we are learning new procedures, such as going over to Patterson Park for recess every day. In addition to a brand-new gymnasium, we will add one classroom, additional restrooms, and a new foyer area, as well as use our old gym as a multipurpose space. And, we are applying to several organizations to help us build a new playground for grades pre-K through second. It’s an exciting time at Hampstead Hill!”.

When the school put out the word to the community that garden items and plants were up for grabs, the CCA and the I Wonder Garden volunteers jumped at the chance to obtain multiple structures, fencing, flowers, and more for the garden. The fencing will be used to secure the community garden plots and the sheds to store equipment and supplies. They also obtained benches and materials to build a welcoming entrance portico.

The effort was led by CCA Sustainability Committee Co-Chair Stephen Washington and local landscape designer / I Wonder volunteer Cherisse Otis. Thanks to Tim, Michele, Nate, Sean, Matthew, James, Stella, and others who helped dismantle and transport the several truckloads of donations! And to Sean (HHA) and Julie (CCA) for helping to liaise the transfer project.

Next up, garden volunteers will work to reassemble the structures and install the fencing in time for the 2024 gardening season.

The I Wonder Garden is one of Canton’s best-kept secrets. The 7,000 sq. ft. pollinator garden features native plants and community plots. Run by a team of local volunteers, they can always use your help! To receive updates on garden meetings and volunteer opportunities follow them on Facebook or email Iwondergardenbaltimore@gmail.com.