FORCE

When the Park and Recreation Department vacates the Botanical Center in July 2004, it will lose the ability to grow and provide plants to public groups and organizations. In 2003, 122 public groups were provided with more than 300,000 annual type plants. A completed study has shown that it is more cost effective for the City to grow and provide the plants than purchase them from outside sources. The new greenhouses will provide 16,000 square feet of controlled environment space and irrigation systems for growing plants year around. In addition, 3,000 square foot head house will be constructed for the purpose of potting plants, storing materials, and providing a staging area work area for staff. The head house will be attached to the greenhouses