Boerner Botanical Garden Perimeter Fence

The Parks Department would like to share an update about the wonderful Boerner Botanical Gardens within Whitnall Park. To protect the gardens from deer munching, potential mischief, and ensure that our visitors contribute to the garden's upkeep by paying the admission fee, a permanent fence is being considered.

Community Engagement
Between May and September 2024, the Parks Community Engagement team collected 406 survey responses. The survey was distributed in-person at Boerner's free day, two general admission days, and at four summer concert events. The survey was also distributed via local media and the Friends group. The public's input is reviewed by Parks staff and used to inform the next steps of the project.

Background
Except for paid parking, before the year 2000, Boerner Botanical Garden was free to the public. However, this open-door policy led to financial limitations. Since 2016, Parks staff installed temporary snow fencing as part of China Lights to gently guide our visitors to the admission gate.

Thank you for being a part of our garden family. Together, we'll continue to grow and make Boerner Botanical Gardens a haven for nature lovers far and wide.

TIMELINE:

Temporary Fence Install: 2020

Public Engagement at concerts and pop-up: Summer 2024

Present findings to County Board: Fall 2024

Construction: Spring 2025

Your support and enthusiasm mean the world to us, and we can't wait to make Boerner Botanical Gardens an even more inviting and secure space for everyone.