[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.

For More Information:

Megan Bibelhauser, Director of Marketing & Communications – mbibelhauser@waterfrontgardens.org

Additional Photos and Renderings

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WLKY | Waterfront Botanical Gardens breaks ground on next phase master plan

Courier-Journal | Waterfront Botanical Gardens breaks ground on Phase 2A of project

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Arrival of leading bonsai expert Angelica Ramirez reflects ongoing commitment to cultivating the region’s preeminent bonsai collection.

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — As Waterfront Botanical Gardens continues to honor the artistry of bonsai and to establish a collection on par with leading bonsai programs around the world,  Angelica Ramirez, an accomplished bonsai artist, educator, and national leader in the bonsai community, has been appointed the first Curator of the Gardens’ bonsai collection. 

Ramirez’ arrival coincides with the commencement of construction on Phase 2A of the Gardens’ Master Plan, which includes the Graeser Family Bonsai Garden and Joe and Debbie Graviss Bonsai House. The Bonsai House and Display Garden will be home to the Gardens’ ever-growing collection of more than 40 bonsai, including a 1,100-year-old niwaki tree and the renowned ‘Father Paul’ boxwood, a century-old tree propagated by one of the world’s leading bonsai experts. These improvements are a significant step forward in establishing a comprehensive bonsai program, including a growing collection of bonsai, nationally attended events, and a structured volunteer training initiative designed to cultivate the next generation of bonsai caretakers.

“Angelica is an extraordinary talent whose experience and leadership in the bonsai world are truly remarkable,” said Philip Koester, president and CEO of Waterfront Botanical Gardens. “As the stewards of the preeminent bonsai collection in the region, the Gardens are thrilled to have her expertise to lead the continued growth of our collection and preserve its legacy going forward.”

Most recently, Ramirez served as Seasonal Bonsai Assistant at the Chicago Botanic Garden, where she was responsible for the care and development of more than 280 bonsai in addition to leading educational programs and supporting public engagement initiatives. Other prestigious appointments include National Bonsai & Penjing Museum in Washington, D.C. and the National Bonsai Foundation. She currently serves on the boards of both the American Bonsai Society and the North American Bonsai Federation, and is the creator and coordinator of the North American Bonsai Pottery Competition. A published author and frequent presenter, Ramirez has contributed to leading bonsai publications in the United States and Japan, and has exhibited her work at major venues including Epcot’s International Flower and Garden Festival and the Chicago Botanic Garden.

Under Ramirez’ purview will be a two-year training initiative for 20 volunteer students that was established in 2025. Taught by Russell Stevens of the Greater Louisville Bonsai Society and Twisted Nature Bonsai, students are developing the skills necessary to become dedicated caretakers of the collection. In addition, the Gardens hosts its annual Bonsai Weekend, now in its fourth year, which attracts more than 2,000 visitors from across the country and has quickly become a signature event celebrating bonsai artistry. This year’s event takes place May 29 – 31.

“I am honored to join the dedicated team of bonsai enthusiasts at Waterfront Botanical Gardens and share my passion with the community,” said Ramirez. “I look forward to building a program that not only preserves this tradition of the intersection of art, horticulture, and culture, but also makes it accessible and inspiring for the Louisville community and beyond.”

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Funding represents the organizations’ shared vision of strengthening community assets in the Commonwealth of Kentucky

(Louisville, KY)—Waterfront Botanical Gardens (WBG) has entered the final stretch in funding its next phase of development thanks in large part to a $500,000 grant from the James Graham Brown Foundation. This pivotal investment has been earmarked for Phase 2A of the Gardens’ Master Plan, accelerating momentum towards completing the highly anticipated Graeser Family Bonsai Garden, Tree Allée, and Beargrass Creek Overlook. Collectively, these elements will further transform the site of a former landfill into a vibrant public garden and living classroom.

Phase 2A marks a defining chapter in WBG’s evolution, expanding its footprint and elevating the visitor experience. “Realizing our mission to transform a former landfill into a world-class botanical garden where nature prospers and people thrive requires partners who believe in the power of this mission,” said Philip Koester, President and CEO of Waterfront Botanical Gardens. “The James Graham Brown Foundation’s investment accelerates our progress and strengthens our ability to grow access to education, cultural enrichment, and connection through nature. We are deeply grateful for their support as we work to cultivate one of the country’s premier bonsai gardens.”

Founded in 1954, the James Graham Brown Foundation is committed to making bold investments in people, places, and ideas that transform communities throughout Kentucky. By supporting the Gardens’ next phase of development, the Foundation plays a crucial role in helping the Gardens expand educational capacity, strengthen equitable access to nature-based learning, and enhance the city’s cultural landscape with a signature destination rooted in environmental restoration. 

“We are honored to support the impactful work Waterfront Botanical Gardens is doing to revitalize an often overlooked part of Louisville, and bring this important asset to citizens and visitors alike,” said Mason Rummel, President and CEO at the James Graham Brown Foundation. “We look forward to watching the progress unfold and enjoying the fruits of the Gardens’ efforts for generations to come.”

“As one of Louisville’s most respected philanthropic institutions, a commitment from the James Graham Brown Foundation is a powerful vote of confidence in the Gardens’ leadership and long-term vision,” said Lori Kay Scott, Director of Philanthropy at Waterfront Botanical Gardens. “When the Foundation invests in a project, the community knows it has been thoroughly evaluated and positioned for meaningful impact. We are deeply grateful for their trust in our work and proud to have their partnership as we bring this transformational phase to completion.”

Construction on Phase 2A is slated to begin in spring 2026. Upon the receipt of this generous grant, WBG has raised $9.3 million towards a goal of $10.5 million, leaving $1.2 million remaining to raise. Phase 2A will feature the Graeser Family Bonsai Garden, Joe and Debbie Graviss Bonsai House, Tree Allée, Beargrass Creek Overlook, and completion of the Beargrass Creek Pathway loop. Other notable contributions include $4 million from the Commonwealth of Kentucky and $1 million from Louisville Metro. Learn more and support the project by visiting waterfrontgardens.org. 

About Waterfront Botanical Gardens

Waterfront Botanical Gardens is an urban botanical garden just east of Downtown Louisville, built on the site of a former landfill that was closed in the 1970s. The unique and innovative project opened to the public in October 2019, and is a place where nature prospers and people thrive through education, entertainment, community, and tourism. The first phase of a four-phase Master Plan has been completed, representing the development of approximately five acres of the 23-acre site. Phase 2 will include the addition of the Bonsai House and Display Gardens, which will one day host the Gardens’ signature Bonsai Weekend. Waterfront Botanical Gardens is free and open to the public, with a suggested admission of $10. For hours of operation, events and programs, and parking/accessibility information, visit waterfrontgardens.org.

Contact Lori Kay Scott, Director of Philanthropy, to learn more and find out how you support the Gardens – lkscott@waterfrontgardens.org.

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In this issue: Phase 2A Update, Planned Giving, Bonsai Weekend Recap, 3D Printing Meets Nature + more!

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WATERFRONT BOTANICAL GARDENS RECEIVES $5 MILLION IN CITY, STATE FUNDING TO ADVANCE ITS MASTER PLAN

Celebrates 5th Anniversary of Public Opening

LOUISVILLE, KY (October 24, 2024) — Waterfront Botanical Gardens is excited to announce $5 million in new funding to accelerate the next phase of its Master Plan. The funding includes $4 million from the Kentucky General Assembly and $1 million from Louisville Metro, coming as the Gardens celebrate five years since opening to the public.

“We are deeply grateful for this unprecedented support from both the Kentucky General Assembly and Louisville Metro,” said Philip Koester, President & CEO of Waterfront Botanical Gardens. “This marks a pivotal moment for the Gardens as we embark on Phase 2 of construction, creating even more opportunities for people to connect with nature in this unique urban oasis. We are thankful for their confidence in our vision for a greener, healthier Kentucky.”

Funding Allocation and Project Details

The $5 million will come from both the state and local governments. The Kentucky General Assembly will provide $2 million in 2024 and another $2 million in 2025, while Louisville Metro’s $1 million contribution will be disbursed by the end of this year. Phase 2 includes the Japanese Garden. The $5 million from city and state will focus on infrastructure for Phase 2A—the Graeser Family Bonsai Garden, Tree Allée, and Beargrass Creek Overlook. Phase 2B will see the completion of the remainder of the Japanese Garden designed by Shiro Nakane of Kyoto, Japan.

Senate President Robert Stivers praised the project’s transformative impact, stating, “Waterfront Botanical Gardens stands for what was once a blight on Louisville’s landscape, transforming it into a beacon of possibility, repurposed with vision into something that inspires and uplifts. In addition to creating a uniquely beautiful green space, Waterfront Botanical Gardens provides environmental education and community events, which mean opportunities for economic development. The $4 million investment in this project is an investment in the quality of life for Kentuckians, and we are proud to showcase Kentucky as a vibrant arts and cultural destination for visitors from the region and around the world.”

Construction Timeline

The Gardens plan to break ground on Phase 2A in early 2025. Initial work will focus on “preloading” the site—a process of compacting soil to ensure stability for future structures. This step is especially critical given the Gardens’ location on the former Ohio Street Dump. The preloading process will take approximately six months, during which time design and construction teams will remobilize. Full construction is expected to commence in the fall of 2025.

In addition to government support, the Gardens are actively working with individual donors and foundations to reach their total fundraising goal of $10.2 million for Phase 2A.

Endorsement from Community, Government Leaders

Senate Caucus Chair Julie Raque Adams also expressed her enthusiasm for the project, noting its importance for the community. “Waterfront Botanical Gardens is a true cultural treasure for Kentucky, offering more than just a beautiful space. It is an opportunity to elevate the quality of life for everyone who visits. We are committed to supporting the Gardens’ continued growth because public green spaces foster connection, education, and well-being. Completing Waterfront Botanical Gardens’ Master Plan will be a huge win for the Commonwealth, and we are proud to invest in that vision.”

During the press conference Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg shared his excitement for what the Gardens have accomplished, and the future ahead. He said, “I know that you all are just getting started, and that’s one of the reasons you have such strong public support. You are already a tremendous asset to our city, to our entire state. The future is so exciting.” He continued, “Taking a landfill and turning it into a botanic garden, it’s also an economic driver for downtown Louisville, and for our entire region, and the Commonwealth.”

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Waterfront Botanical Gardens is developing an urban botanical garden just east of Downtown Louisville by transforming a landfill and creating a place where nature prospers and people thrive through education, entertainment, community, and tourism.

The Gardens opened to the public in October 2019, and have developed approximately five acres of the full 23-acre site. In 2023, the Gardens welcomed over 56,000 visitors. Phase 1 of a 4-Phase Master Plan has been completed. Visit waterfrontgardens.org/news/press-room for the Phase 2 Press Kit.

Waterfront Botanical Gardens is free and open to the public, with a suggested admission of $10. For hours of operation, events and programs, and parking/accessibility information, visit waterfrontgardens.org.

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WBG In Bloom Spring 2024 Newsletter
In this issue: Forever Green, Seeds of Support, Why Bonsai?, Growing Greener, + more!

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