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, but it has the potential to enhance the beauty of the neighborhood.

Our goal is to transform the space into a beautiful, vibrant sidewalk cafe and community space. 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.

This includes fully excavating the concrete, leveling the ground, and installing ADA accessible pavers. The total construction project will cost $29,900.

In addition, we want to add semi-permanent fencing to protect pedestrians from Georgia Avenue ($14,000), lighting to enhance safety and usability ($6,000), planters and greenery ($1,000), heaters and storage when not in use ($3000) and a weather safe extension of our free little craft library ($5000). We also anticipate needing approximately $2500 for increased cafe smallwares.

The total project cost will be approximately $61,000, and we are seeking community support to help transform 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 this is public space, it is considered our responsibility to fix the space to meet the requirements for a sidewalk cafe.

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.