City planner Yolanda Chen argues that neighborhood gardens improve urban life in three significant ways: they supply residents with fresh produce, strengthen social ties, and transform neglected lots into attractive green spaces. Chen notes that in one district weekly harvests now supplement nearly half the vegetables sold at the local corner store. She also recounts how Saturday planting sessions, once attended by only a handful of volunteers, have become block-wide events drawing grandparents and teenagers alike. Finally, she cites a municipal report indicating that properties adjacent to the gardens rose in value by 7 percent within two years of the first seedlings' appearance.
Which of the following accurately summarizes a supporting detail that Chen uses to bolster her claim that neighborhood gardens strengthen social ties?
- Saturday planting sessions that formerly drew few people now attract participants from multiple age groups. (correct answer)
- Corner stores in the district now stock vegetables that were harvested within walking distance.
- Municipal data show property values climbing in areas near newly planted garden plots.
- City planners often designate vacant lots as temporary sites for community art installations.
Explanation: Option A directly summarizes the passage's evidence that gardening events have evolved into intergenerational gatherings, illustrating strengthened social connections. Option B concerns produce supply, not social ties. Option C relates to economic impact rather than relationships among residents. Option D is never mentioned in the passage.