$5 Million “Rooted at Park and Cherry” Initiative Launches
Building upon recent momentum, the Memphis Botanic Garden (MBG) today announces its next capital campaign: Rooted at Park and Cherry. Four projects, each to be completed by December 2024, are envisioned with proceeds from this $5 million campaign. They include:
● Significant upgrades to the Garden’s original 3-acre Arboretum and Orchard
● Construction of a new 3,200 square foot Youth Education and Tropical Plants Glasshouse
● The addition of an Outdoor Kitchen to its Urban Home Garden
● Establishment of a new Family Event Lawn and Rest Area (Bathrooms)
“Having recently completed the 12th and final project related to our 2018 campaign, Nourish Greenprint, and on the heels of today’s closing of our record-breaking Alice’s Adventures at the Garden seasonal exhibit – plus other factors, we feel like now is the right time to launch a new effort,” said Kim MacQueen, Board President of the Memphis Botanic Garden Foundation.
Mayor Jim Strickland stated: “With the primary focus of these new projects bordering along Cherry Road, these newest Garden initiatives add to recent City investments in Audubon Park, Audubon Golf Course, Leftwich Tennis Center, and more. When completed, the Audubon gardens, arts, parks, and sports community will be more vibrant and accessible than ever.”
“Garden funding is provided through private / public partnerships. This campaign will be paid for with at least 60% private dollars, raised from local foundations, corporations, and individuals. We have received early commitments totaling $1.5 million dollars (30%) of our goal and believe that with a dedicated effort, Memphis’ generous spirit, and the broad-based appeal of these projects (environment, family, youth education, and healthy eating), we will successfully raise the remaining funds,” said Michael Allen, Executive Director of the Memphis Botanic Garden.
Fleming Architects (Memphis), Dalhoff Thomas Design (Memphis), and Prospiant Inc. (Cincinnati) have each been engaged to assist in the design process for these projects.
The Memphis Botanic Garden is a not-for-profit 501(c) (3) organization dedicated to being an exemplary center for horticulture and environmental enrichment. Serving over 40,000 school-aged children annually, and hosting 225,000 visitors each year, Memphis Botanic Garden strives to enhance lives by connecting people with nature, increasing awareness and appreciation of our environment.