FAA 391 students learn about housing with EPDC and beautify landscapes with Eagle's Nest

FAA 391 students started their outreach weekend activities with a Friday tour and discussion of housing development in East St. Louis with Jason Carbone of Emerson Park Development Corporation. The housing tour educated students on importance of creating quality housing, and the challenges of housing development in East St. Louis.

On Saturday, students worked with Eagle's Nest residents to plan, design, and plant landscaping around the parking lot entrance of Joseph Center. This was a continuation of the work FAA 391 students did in the Fall 2010 semester by digging a small koi fish pond at Joseph Center. The fish pond created a relaxing space for the men to enjoy, but residents felt that additions of color and more plants would improve the environment even more. Students worked side by side with residents of the shelter to plant flowering shrubs, evergreens, and seasonal flowers around the pond and the building. The plants should offer color and texture year round.