A Flint woman is proving that a little vision can go a long way by transforming a set of vacant, demolished lots on Dupont Street into a thriving community garden.
ABC12 spoke to Wanda Coleman, who is creating opportunities for neighbors to connect and grow. The space that once symbolized blight is now becoming a source of pride on Flint’s north side.
“Cause like I said, in the summertime when the flowers are booming, it’s beautiful and I think the community loves it,” Coleman said.
Coleman grew up in the area and now leads the effort to turn neglected property into a community resource that benefits the entire neighborhood.
“I named it the Dupont Oasis so that they can feel like they’re on an oasis,” Coleman said. “Just their own little part of earth right here in Flint.”
Coleman also partners with the Land Bank, mowing 60 lawns across Flint. She explained her motivation in one sentence.
“I was tired of seeing the community full of blight,” Coleman said. “I do it for my children. I do it for my elders. I feel like I don’t want the children of Flint to grow up and have only blight and debris to look at.”
Coleman is now working on a space to grow fresh produce right in the heart of the neighborhood. She may add a playground at a later date.
“I love my community and I want it to look nice,” Coleman said.
Coleman said her goal is to create a welcoming space that brings neighbors together and inspires others to invest in their community.
In 2025, with support from the Land Bank and Urban Conservation Fund, Dupont Oasis was created, establishing native plants, gathering spaces, and a sustainable water system. It’s a project that reflects the Land Bank’s mission to turn blighted properties into neighborhood assets.
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