Waterfront Botanical Gardens breaks ground on Phase 2A of project

Bailey Reed, Louisville Courier JournalThu, May 7, 2026 at 3:45 PM UTC

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The Waterfront Botanical Gardens in downtown Louisville officially moved into the next phase of its renovation plan after breaking ground on Phase 2A of its mater plan in April.

The project is part a multi-phase renovation effort "designed to connect nature, education and community while restoring the former landfill site’s ecological health," according to the news release.

Phase 2A, expected to open in Spring 2027, will add 2.25 acres of land to the park and an additional 1,500 feet of walkable pathways, officials said. New features will include the Graeser Family Bonsai Garden, the Joe & Debbie Graviss Bonsai House, the Tree Allée and the Beargrass Creek Overlook, as well as completing the Beargrass Creek Pathway loop.

According to the release, the Bonsai House and Garden will house more than 70 bonsai trees, including a 1,100-year-old niwaki tree and a ‘Father Paul’ Boxwood.

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A rendering of the Tree Allée.

"Each new phase of construction and development represents a piece of the vision coming to life,” President and CEO of Waterfront Botanical Gardens Philip Koester said in the release. “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."

The plan was originally developed in 2014 with architectural design firm Perkins & Will and Botanica, "an umbrella organization for the local gardening community," according to the release. Future phases of the plan will include development of the Bonsai garden, a visitor's center, a children’s garden and a conservatory.

Select areas of the Waterfront Botanical Gardens will remain open to visitors during construction, officials said.

Reach reporter Bailey Reed at bereed@usatodayco.com.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Waterfront Botanical Gardens proceeds to next phase of renovations

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