The Chicago Botanic Garden is set to receive $500,000 in state funds intended to enhance the entrance of Glencoe’s popular destination.
On July 29, the State of Illinois announced the award of $15 million in grants for more than 40 local festival and popular sites throughout the state. Included in that group was a half a million dollar grant for the Gardens located in Glencoe.
“The funding received supports welcome projects, including a new Welcome Plaza, for our one million annual visitors that is currently under construction,” explained Garden spokeswoman Julie McCaffrey in an email.
“By the end of 2022, we’ll have a visitor friendly and traffic-free entry plaza, a new lakeside Stone Family Picnic Glade, and new electric trams,” added Garden Chairman Michael R. Zimmerman and President and CEO Jean M. Franczyk in a note posted on the organization’s annual report.
In 2021, the Garden drew 1.1 million people, its second highest total ever, according to the annual report. There are currently 28 gardens and four natural areas spread over 385 acres.
Earlier this year, the Garden started charging an admission fee
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for the first time in its nearly 50 year history.Daniel I. Dorfman is a freelance reporter with Pioneer Press.