The Grand Concourse community broke ground Friday on a long-awaited piece of green space.

Students from KIPP Elementary School helped plant vegetables and herbs in the 6,500-square foot garden, named New Roots Farm. The Department of Transportation (DOT) and local leaders were also on hand to help.

Officials say the land will eventually be used as part of an East 153rd Street bridge project in about six years, but in the meantime, it will serve as a green oasis.