In May 2008, Laramie County voters overwhelmingly approved $750,000 in 6th Penny funds to complete the architectural designs to refurbish and expand the Botanic Gardens Greenhouse & Conservatory, however, no money was allocated for construction in this vote.
In August of 2012, voters will have the opportunity to approve 6th Penny funding to complete construction.
Disrepair : The unique solar structure faces constant humidity, condensation and wide temperature swings. This has caused degradation to the greenhouse’s walls, ceiling and insulation. As the building becomes compromised, the future of the structure is uncertain.
Access : The greenhouse was built prior to the Americans with Disabilities Act. As a result, the aisles need to be widened, but this would greatly reduce indoor planting areas. Expansion is needed to compensate. The second floor (offices, meeting room, library) and restrooms are not handicapped accessible even though many of the Garden’s visitors are handicapped.
Beautification : The Botanic Gardens grow, plant and maintain approximately 50,000 plants in 80 flower beds per year. With park acreage expanding and the structure deteriorating, the greenhouse will be ill-equipped to meet future plant production demands.
Lack of space : The meeting room, kitchen, classroom, volunteer work room and storage room are one and the same. Restrooms are undersized. More space is needed!
Tourism : Over 73,000 visitors a year from all 50 states and 30 countries
Beautification: The Gardens staff and volunteers grow, plant and maintain 80 flowerbeds throughout the city in parks, parkways and surrounding city buildings.
Quality of life : This amenity attracts new businesses and helps overcome negativity towards the windy, long winters.
Community operated : Meaningful volunteer opportunities for seniors, at-risk youth and handicapped individuals.
National recognition : Awards have been received from Presidents Reagan, H.W. Bush and Clinton. Also recognized by Harvard University and the American Public Garden Association. Featured in 10 national magazines and the New York Times.
Respite from the Weather : A much needed tropical oasis for residents to escape 6 months of cold and wind and enjoy year-round blooms.
Increased Space : Better accommodate volunteers, school groups and community gatherings, classes and events.
Increased Plant Production : Beautify all of Cheyenne’s current and future park and city plantings.
Navy Submarine Periscope– Within the expansion there will be a real submarine periscope that saw service on three different submarines. It will be placed where the public can view across the park from above the roof of the Greenhouse and learn about military history and the science of optics. The Gardens has already acquired this periscope with the help of local Navy Veterans.
Increased Revenues : A new gift shop and rentable space (i.e. weddings, meetings etc.) enabling the Gardens to raise funds and reduce the need for tax dollars.
Increased Tourism : A year-round, local attraction that provides an engaging, educational, and tropical environment for all ages to enjoy.
Cost of Renovation and Expansion: $16,000,000 total. $14,000,000 for building refurbishment and expansion, $2,000,000 for operations and maintenance.
How many cities the size of Cheyenne have a year-round botanic garden? None! Cheyenne is able to accomplish this through volunteerism, solar energy, and the non-profit foundation that works in partnership with the City.
Milestones:
Founded 1977, moved to Lions Park 1986, $2 million privately funded Children’s Village opened 2009
The Botanic Garden is a division of the City of Cheyenne Parks and Recreation Department.
This is the official web site of the Friends of the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens, a non-profit foundation dedicated to further the goals of the Cheyenne Botanic Gardens.
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