Kennesaw residents and garden enthusiasts will need to find other places to visit as Smith-Gilbert Gardens closes for major upgrades starting November 28. The site will be off-limits until spring 2025, as the project aims to improve accessibility and educational offerings for visitors.
The City of Kennesaw's official announcement details upcoming improvements at Smith-Gilbert Gardens, including four new accessible restrooms, a pavilion for events and educational gatherings, a mile of paved pathways, a digital marquee on Pine Mountain Road, and updates to special exhibits like the bonsai and butterfly areas. These changes aim to enhance community engagement and improve services in line with the garden’s mission of conservation and horticulture.
Dave Simpson, Executive Director of Smith-Gilbert Gardens, expressed his excitement about the renovations, stating, “We are thrilled about the upcoming renovations at Smith-Gilbert Gardens.” He highlighted that these improvements will enhance accessibility, provide new educational opportunities, and create a better experience for visitors in the same announcement.
According to the City of Kennesaw website, during the transformation of the Smith-Gilbert Gardens, stewardship will maintain community engagement through the “Garden on the Go” outreach program for local schools and scout groups. Workshops and programs will be held at various venues across Kennesaw. People can stay updated on these offerings through social media, the newsletter, and the Gardens’ calendar. For more information and scheduling during the fall, interested individuals can contact [email protected]. All memberships to Smith-Gilbert Gardens will be extended for the duration of the closure.
