In 2021, Monika Hall-Camilletti, a resident of the Willowbrook neighborhood, envisioned a community space where her children and others could play. At the time, the closest playground was at Village Oaks Elementary School, a 30-minute walk from her home. With two little ones in tow and no sidewalks along 10 Mile Road, getting there was not an easy task. One day, she noticed that the traffic islands throughout her subdivision were merely grass fields, yet large enough to accommodate a play structure. This realization inspired her to transform one of those islands into a playground.
After conducting research and meeting with the WCA Board, it was determined that a better use of the land would be a garden. Thus, the idea of a play area on one island evolved into a plan to plant gardens on multiple islands throughout the neighborhood. These previously unused plots of land could become serene spaces for reflection, social gatherings, and play. With a focus on sustainability, Monika decided that gardens filled with native plants and flowers would be the best option for both the community and the environment.
Since then, more than 50 volunteers of all ages have contributed to creating natural spaces for everyone to enjoy. Residents maintain each of Willowbrook’s traffic islands, most of which now contain hundreds of native flowers and sedges, as well as large native trees and educational signage. Benches have also been installed, providing places for people to relax and appreciate the natural beauty of the gardens.
Monika reflects, “There is so much about the world that I cannot change, but planting native plants and sharing their importance with others allows me to make a positive impact in my own way.” The benefits of this project extend far and wide. Beautification Commissioner Gareth Crawford notes that “Fewer pesticides are required to maintain native plants compared with invasive ones.” Beautification Commissioner Laura Williams adds, “Saturating our gardens with pesticides and herbicides kills the food source for birds and other species.”
The project has exceeded Monika’s expectations. As in many neighborhoods, residents had lived near each other for decades without truly knowing one another. The gardens brought them together, fostering new friendships and shared experiences. Visitors can now observe a diverse array of birds, rabbits, pollinators, and even Monarch butterflies while enjoying the gardens. Inspired by this transformation, many residents have begun planting native species at their own homes and educating friends and relatives about their benefits.
Plants native to Michigan play a vital role in Novi’s ecosystem. For example, Monarch butterfly larvae feed exclusively on milkweed. As Beautification Commission Chairperson Jan Lach advises, “When we plant milkweed in our gardens, we also help the butterfly survive so we can continue to enjoy its beauty.” Native gardens create peaceful oases filled with complex colors, textures, and fragrances while providing tangible ecological benefits to Novi.
According to Novi’s City Forester, Keith Salowich, “Native plant species are best equipped to build habitat and provide food for our native wildlife.” He makes every effort to plant native species throughout the city, including oak trees where space allows. Native oaks, which can grow over 80 feet tall, are a keystone species capable of living for hundreds of years.