Help Build a Vibrant Space at Georgia and Geranium

Merry Pin is organizing this fundraiser.

Donation protected

At the corner of Georgia & Geranium sits a 330 square foot concrete space. Currently, it's an eye sore and a trip hazard due to uneven concrete. It has the potential to add beauty to the neighborhood.

Our goal is to transform the space into a beautiful, vibrant sidewalk cafe. But we need your help to make it happen.

THE CHALLENGE:

The concrete patio area is part of the District's Right of Way, but DDOT has informed us that this construction work must be done at Merry Pin's expense.

In the process of applying for our sidewalk cafe permit, the DC Department of Transportation informed us that in order to use the space we would have to:

Fully excavate the concrete ($8,000)
Have the storm drainage evaluated ($3,500)
Re-pour the concrete ($11,000)

Additionally, some of the pavers in the back parking pad area would have to be removed and refilled with concrete because the back parking pad extends 3 feet into the allotted public space.

You can help turn this corner into a beautiful space for connection, collaboration, and creativity.

THE VISION:

We want to transform the corner into a beautiful space that will contribute to neighborhood's vibrancy, create a lively gathering place for people to meet, foster a sense of community, make the area feel more alive, and show off Shepherd Park and Takoma DC's creative spirit.

WHAT IT WILL COST:

Although the space is owned by DC, it is considered our responsibility to fix the space to meet the District's current requirement (stormwater drainage, excavate and re-pour concrete, fix the parking pavers encroaching on the patio space).

We are hoping to raise funds from the community to cover roughly 1/3 of the total cost.

Will you help us transform this eyesore into a beautiful, vibrant space for the neighborhood? We appreciate any support you can provide—every dollar helps.

ABOUT US:

Opened in June 2024, Merry Pin is a cafe + craft store + community space bringing the joy of making in community to a previously vacant corner of Upper Georgia Avenue NW.

With classes, markets, camps, events, as well as snacks and beverages to bring people together, Merry Pin is a one-of-a-kind small business not just in the region but in the nation.