A Ribbon Cutting was recently held to commemorate the new Pedestrian Entrance to Montgomery Botanical Gardens at Oak Park. Mayor Steven Reed, the MBG Board of Directors, and several partners of MBG participated in the exciting event. A newly installed arch marks the entrance and prominently displays the Montgomery Botanical Gardens name, enhancing visibility for visitors. The purpose of the new entrance was two-fold, to display the MBG sign and to create a safer, more accessible entrance to the gardens for all.
Maggie Stringer, Tom McLemore, and Henry Lucas – MBG Board Members who are Master Gardeners and CCMGA members.
In conjunction with the entrance project, surrounding neighborhood enhancements were completed, including the planting of 14 new maple trees along Park Lane leading to the new MBG entrance; the addition of ADA-accessible sidewalks, and the installation of new bike lanes that lead directly to the gardens. A partnership with River Region Trails and assistance from the city made it possible to revise the curbs for the pedestrian crossings at the three-way stop at the intersection for Forest Avenue and Park Lane. The historic hex pavers, uneven but full of charm, were carefully removed and preserved by the city for future use by the gardens. Several have already been incorporated into the new pathway leading to the entrance. The sidewalk along Forest Avenue is now smooth, safe and accessible.
Mr. Greg Godwin of the Chamber of Commerce, opened the ceremony by addressing the gathering to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of everyone who contributed to making both the gardens and this new entrance a reality. He emphasized that the pedestrian entrance represents a significant milestone in the ongoing development of the gardens, which continue to evolve and grow.
Mayor Reed addressed the large gathering and highlighted the significant benefits the Botanical Gardens bring to the city and the River Region. He noted that the gardens offer a place to experience the beauty and peace of nature; provide educational and recreational opportunities, and enhance the overall quality of life for residents and visitors alike.
Cathy Maddox, President of the MBG Board of Directors, followed by acknowledging the many supporting partnerships that are essential to the development and ongoing maintenance of the gardens. She emphasized the gardens’ importance as a regional asset and expressed her deep appreciation for the Capital City Master Gardener volunteers, who are vital to the gardens’ continued success. Cathy also recognized the generous donation from Mr. Lee Moore for the 25 Japanese Maples that were planted last year, and thanked Jud Blount for financial contributions to the gardens from the Katherine Archibald Blount Fund…