Botanical Garden Society Explores Commons for Possible Garden Site

The Botanical Garden Society has always felt the Travers City Commons site of the old State Hospital would make a wonderful home for the garden. In January of 2007, the Traverse City/Garfield Township Recreation Authority began a 5-month visioning process to determine the best use of the 54 acre parcel with 2 historic barns on the commons grounds.

As the Brainstorming the Barns process evolved, a number of individuals and groups shared their ideas and wishes for this site. High on the list was a a botanic garden, a historical working farm, community garden plots, and a vehicle for other active and passive recreational activities. It might seem that these concepts and dreams are quite diverse, even at odds, but a sound master plan for this site could incorporate all of these in a manner that would not only allow the site to be self-sustaining, but to become one of the jewels of Traverse City.

Before plans are finalized for use of this one section of the Commons, it is important to step back and look at the Commons as a whole. The Old State Hospital and grounds has many existing newer facilities on it – Munson Medical Center, the Pavilions, Hospice House, TBA Intermediate School District offices, the Arnold Engstrom School, a site for the Woman’s Resource Center, the Art Center, a Montessori School, a government office building, an architect office, etc. The old buildings are being refurbished into housing, shops, restaurants and even a small hotel. Copper Ridge, a mixed-use housing and business complex, adjoins this parcel of land and downtown is nearby. Extensive woodlands and trails, owned by Traverse City and Garfield Township, wrap around these sites. The barns and 54-acre piece of the Commons will be close to, and easily accessible to the people who live and work in or near this site – professionals, students, condo and home owners, patients and their families, the elderly, etc. What kind of project could be developed to enhance the lives of all those people? And because the project must be able to generate enough revenues to maintain it, what kinds of uses would be both enriching and financially feasible – uses that would attract visitors from other areas as well?

If you think of the Commons as a campus, which it truly is, you can see the importance of tying these components together to make it even better. Education, housing, medical care, shopping, dining, take place on this campus daily. The Barns project will provide a variety of opportunities for recreation, both passive and active, hopefully in a way that reflects the culture, interests and needs of this community. Finding ways to connect those opportunities to those who live and work on or near the Commons will not only enhance the Barns project, but increase the value and significance of the Commons as a whole. It has the potential of making this one of our region’s greatest assets.

If we go back and consider the dreams of those who participated in the first brainstorming session, we can begin to see how each of those ideas can be incorporated in a way that results in a project that is both ideal and self sustaining. There are many exciting ways to design a project that offers a working historical farm, a botanic garden, community garden plots, exercise trails, and more. Each of these endeavors would have a difficult time generating enough funds to be self-sufficient, but a combination of efforts could result in a spectacular center right in the heart of the city. Such a merger is not impossible. One need only go to some of the world’s finest botanic gardens to see many, if not all of these components in place. Some (i.e, Middleton Place, Magnolia Gardens, etc.) have restored historical farm buildings where visitors can experience life in an agrarian society. Many (i.e. Denver Botanic Gardens, Chicago Botanic Gardens, Montreal Botanic Gardens, etc.) provide sites and support for community garden plots. Almost all have a network of trails for exercise and nature study. Education is always a strong component of a botanic garden, with classrooms and courses for all ages. Ecological responsibility is not only taught, but demonstrated via green buildings, sustainable energy sources, native plants and native landscaping. Those with larger sites often incorporate nature preserves and conservancies (Missouri Botanic Garden, Brookgreen Garden, etc.). Music and art is showcased in most of these settings and, always, there are places for peace and solace.

Different members of our community have different dreams and goals, but they have much in common. All need a site, with parking and utilities, preferably close to the urban center. All have a belief in the importance of ecological responsibility. All want an opportunity for recreation and education, creativity and beauty. All take pride in this region and have a desire to make it better while protecting its assets. All struggle to obtain the funds to make it happen on their own.

Coordinating efforts and merging some of the facilities and support staff, would share the burden of construction and maintenance costs. Parking areas used during the day for visits to a historical farm or botanic garden could be used at night for musical performances, dances, film festivals, and concerts. Visitor center facilities (i.e. admissions area, restrooms, classrooms, gallery areas) could be shared by the site partners, along with responsibilities and revenues.

As we work through the Brainstorming the Barns process, let us focus on how our goals are alike, not how we are different. Let us respect the goals of each individual and group and work hard to find ways to bring them together so the results reflect the needs and desires of the group - a center that inspires, teaches, entertains, and preserves.

BGSNM Passes on Hammond Property

Dear Friend of the Garden,

After a great deal of deliberation, the Botanical Garden Society Board has decided not to exercise the option for the 80 acre parcel on Vanderlip and Hammond Roads. We are most appreciative that the owner, Roland Habrecht, has been willing to hold his property for us over the past three years, allowing use of the site for BGS programs and activities. Although Mr. Habrecht has been most patient and accommodating, it is not fair to ask him to extend the option any longer. Given today’s economic climate, and the large number of capital campaign projects in our community and region, we feel this is not the time to undertake such a significant fundraising effort.

Our goal for a regional public garden, however, has not diminished in any way. We are already beginning the process of exploring alternate sites and are pursuing a variety of avenues (i.e. donated property, shared facilities, partnerships, etc.). As a supporter of our past efforts, you will be kept abreast of our progress and encouraged to continue your active participation.

So much has been accomplished over the past few years. With the help of the BGS board and a membership of 600 individuals, organizations and businesses, we have increased public awareness of the economic, educational, horticultural and artistic benefits of a botanical garden in this region. Over 500 community members have participated in our monthly programs, more than 1,000 children have benefited from special school programs and nature hikes, and over 2,000 members of garden clubs and other community groups have enjoyed BGS exhibits and presentations. Research has been conducted on the significant economic impact public gardens have on regions, partnerships have been formed with regional organizations, and an active grant writing process has been initiated. These accomplishments lay the groundwork for future goals and efforts as we “grow the garden.” In the meantime, we will continue to provide educational opportunities for as many individuals and groups as possible while pursuing a new site. Memorial donations are being held in trust at the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation and will become a part of the future garden.

Although it is difficult to turn away from the Hammond Road site, we are excited and energized by the new opportunities this move will generate. Thank you so much for being a part of this journey. We strongly believe we are heading in the right direction. The Botanical Garden Society remains committed to a public garden in this region and we count on your continued support.

Sincerely,
Karen Schmidt
Board Chair

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