BUFFALO, N.Y. — The Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens announced Wednesday a master plan for the future of the gardens, including a 40,000 square foot expansion.
The gardens have already made improvements to programs and events over the past five years, and the master plan is expected to enhance the visitor experience.
There are plans to update the existing interior and exterior spaces with no changes to the original historic Lord & Burnham structure.
“The Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens are a unique and irreplaceable asset in Erie County, with world class collections that draw visitors from all over the world. Now well over a century old and seeing increased visitation every year, this historic institution is strong and is planning the next steps that will ensure its educational and conservational role far into the future,” said Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz in a released statement.
Plans for expansion include adding 40,000 feet to the gardens, a butterfly conservatory, educational classrooms, new grow houses, exhibit and event spaces, a cafe and a larger gift shop.
Construction is expected to begin in the fall of 2020 with completion expected in the fall of 2022.