Phase 2A Construction Progress at Waterfront Gardens

WATERFRONT BOTANICAL GARDENS ADVANCES MASTER PLAN WITH NEW CONSTRUCTION PROGRESS

[Louisville, KY]–Continuing its vision to transform a former landfill into a 23-acre world-class botanical destination, Waterfront Botanical Gardens broke ground on Phase 2A of its four-phase Master Plan last month. Phase 2A includes The Graeser Family Bonsai Garden, Joe & Debbie Graviss Bonsai House, the Tree Allée, Beargrass Creek Overlook, and completed Beargrass Creek Pathway loop. The grand opening for this expansion is planned for Spring 2027.

“Each new phase of construction and development represents a piece of the vision coming to life,” said Philip Koester, president and CEO of Waterfront Botanical Gardens. “This project is a tangible symbol that demonstrates how thoughtful design and community investment can transform underutilized land into a place where nature and people thrive.”

Phase 2A will complete and connect several elements within the Gardens, while adding 2.25 acres and an additional 1,500 feet of walkable pathways. Leading from the Graeser Family Education Center and the Bonsai Garden, the Tree Allée will feature a paved path marked with benches and lined with American Dream Swamp White Oak Trees. Once mature, the trees will offer shade along the pathway that culminates in the Beargrass Creek Overlook, an elevated platform with views of the creek and protected wetlands beyond.

Additionally, as part of the Gardens’ ongoing commitment to cultivating a bonsai program on par with other world renowned collections, the Bonsai House and Garden will house the Gardens’ ever-growing collection of more than 70 bonsai trees, including a 1,100 year old niwaki tree and renowned ‘Father Paul’ Boxwood. Construction on this portion coincides with the arrival of Angelica Ramirez, the Gardens’ first bonsai curator.

Originally developed in 2014 in partnership with architectural design firm Perkins & Will and Botanica, an umbrella organization for the local gardening community, the Master Plan outlines a multi-phase transformation designed to connect nature, education, and community while restoring the former landfill site’s ecological health. Future phases will include further development of the Bonsai garden, a Visitors Center, Children’s Garden, and Conservatory. Currently, more than $9.3 million toward a goal of $10.5 million has been raised to complete Phase 2A.

Waterfront Botanical Gardens remains open to visitors during construction, with select areas accessible to the public.