Seven years ago Franklin Park Conservatory began drawing a blueprint for the future of Franklin Park with the help of many representatives throughout the community. In 2005, after the success of Chihuly at the Conservatory, the Conservatory thought the time was right to move its Master Plan forward and sought the counsel of business, community and political leaders to help make it a reality. In June 2007, Franklin Park Conservatory takes a monumental step forward in its history with the groundbreaking for two new wings off the historic Palm House.
“In some ways it seems like a long time coming and in other ways it seems like just yesterday we began this process,” said Neil Mortine, board president of Friends of the Conservatory. “There have been a lot of people involved in the process and each one should be very proud of the part he or she has played during this transformational time for the Conservatory.”
The two new Palm House wings are just the beginning of Phase One of the Master Plan. Later this year construction will begin on a four-acre Community Garden Campus, followed by groundbreaking in early 2008 for new production greenhouses. “These projects were chosen to be completed in Phase One because of their importance to the Conservatory’s future and to the community,” said Bill Wells, Franklin Park Conservatory board president. “The new wings will help increase revenue to ensure the long-term sustainability of this great institution. The Community Garden Campus will support our education efforts and Growing to Green, our community gardening outreach program.”
“This is an exciting time for the Conservatory and the community,” said Bruce Harkey, the new executive director of Franklin Park Conservatory. “So many people have stepped up to help bring us to this point. Our donors, community leaders, the state of Ohio, Franklin County, the city of Columbus, the Recreation and Parks Department, Conservatory staff and volunteer everyone understands the economic importance of Franklin Park and the Conservatory to this city and region and the effect the Master Plan will have on our community.”
When Phase One is completed, the Conservatory will be able to generate additional funds through special events. Community gardeners and all those interested in gardening will have a place to learn and gather ideas. And the Conservatory horticulture and educational staff will have new facilities in which to grow plants and teach children and adults about conservation, science and plant life.
“This is the first step in the transformation of Franklin Park Conservatory and Franklin Park,” said Harkey. “Today we are laying the groundwork for a new Franklin Park—one that will serve our neighbors and visitors in new and interesting ways, while still maintaining the tradition of which we are so proud.”