Start of Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens' large expansion and renovation project

$31 million project includes much-needed expanded spaces & visitor amenities to meet community demand, increase tourism; see renderings of project here

Submitted by the Office of Gov. Kathy Hochul

Gov. Kathy Hochul announced the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens broke ground on its long-anticipated expansion and renovation project. The $31 million project will include much-needed visitor amenities to meet the demands of the community, further the organization’s mission, and provide generational growth and stability. It is anticipated to be completed in early 2027.

“The Botanical Gardens have long been one of my favorite places to escape and enjoy nature, providing lush greenery and bright flowers even during Buffalo’s toughest winters,” Hochul said. “Improvements to this historic tourist destination will create a space for events, kids’ camps, and educational classes to grow – ensuring a bright future for one of Buffalo’s most treasured attractions.”

This historic transformation will meet the needs of the community by increasing access to the living collections and programs and creating more accessible spaces, pathways and entrances. With a growing demand for student field trips and private events, intentionally designed spaces will enhance comfort and functionality for students and guests where current spaces present limitations and challenges.

The project includes over 14,000 square-feet of renovated spaces, more than 16,000 square-feet of new construction, and over 90,000 square-feet of renovated and new outdoor gardens. Some of the features include:

√ Welcome center, a brand-new entrance/admission center

√ Garden Market Café, providing small bites and beverages

√ Expanded gift shop

√ Learning lab, with two new classrooms

√ The Canopy, a beautiful climate-controlled event space

√ Solarium, a dedicated greenhouse for small events

√ Terrace, an outdoor patio for events

√ Horticulture center, a transformed workspace for horticulturists, gardeners and volunteers

√ Central courtyard, an enclosed courtyard for protected plant collections and works of art.

√ Sustainability initiatives: solar panels, stormwater management and energy-efficient designs

√ Accessibility initiatives, including a relocated entrance with a drop-off circle, all-gender and family-focused restrooms, a parents’ room, visitor lockers, and many more visitor-friendly amenities

The Botanical Gardens’ mission to deepen the connection between people and plants through beautiful gardens and extraordinary experiences will be furthered through the addition of these amenities that will create more opportunities for additional programming like field trips, summer camp, adult education, community events, exhibits and art collaborations. The establishment of these foundational programs and amenities will ensure that generations of families will continue to have a place for learning, gathering, celebrating and connecting with nature for another 125 years and beyond.

Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “This project is not merely an upgrade; it's a strategic investment in the region’s cultural landscape and a commitment to enriching the community’s connection with nature. The transformation of Buffalo’s historic Botanical Gardens will help attract visitors, support local businesses, and generate revenue – creating economic opportunities for both the gardens themselves and the surrounding neighborhoods. The project is a wonderful way to celebrate the 125th anniversary of the beloved attraction, as it expands its role in the community.”

New York state is providing $12 million in capital grants for the project, including $10 million from the Regional Economic and Community Assistance Program, $1 million from the Western New York Regional Council, and two $500,000 grants from Market New York. The expansion and renovation project is also supported by Erie County, federal funds, local corporations, foundations and individuals.

The Botanical Gardens has already raised over 94% of the needed funding for the completion of the project. It is asking for the public’s support of its capital campaign, titled “Growing Beyond the Glass,” to close the $2 million gap of the $31 million project total.

Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens President and CEO Erin Grajek said, “ ‘Growing Beyond the Glass’ means so much more than just a new building; it’s an opportunity to embrace our entire campus and provide our community with extraordinary experiences. Together with our supporters, donors and friends, we are writing history for the next generation. Our team is profoundly excited and honored to be championing this project, and we look forward to creating a Botanical Gardens that serves the community in ways never imagined before.”

The existing conservatory and its free parking will not be impacted by the expansion, and the conservatory will remain open throughout the entirety of the project. Visitors are strongly encouraged to support the project by donating to the campaign, continuing to visit, becoming a member, enjoying the ongoing exhibits and collection changes, and sharing the progress of the project via social media.

Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization that welcomes all to enjoy its living plant collections, conservatory, and educational programming. Opened in 1900, the Botanical Gardens is located within a park system designed by Frederick Law Olmsted. Support for the organization is provided by public funds from Erie County; the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation; members; donors; and friends.