MARCH 28, 2007

LEGISLATORS KENNEDY, KOZUB SECURE FUNDING FOR BOTANICAL GARDENS

Erie County Legislators Timothy M. Kennedy (D-South Buffalo) and Daniel M. Kozub (D-Lackawanna) recently announced the approval of almost $260,000 by the Erie County Legislature at its most recent session to be used for additional repair and reconstruction work which will coincide directly with the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens' Master Plan.

The Botanical Gardens, located at 2655 South Park Avenue in South Buffalo on the border of Lackawanna, has served this community in its capacity for over a century. As a result of continued efforts by the Erie County legislature, the reconstruction project is now beginning to take shape, solidifying the attraction's future prosperity.

"The Botanical Gardens is a wonderful facility that provides natural beauty, neighborhood integrity, and an economic boost to its surrounding area, as well as, all of Erie County," said Legislator Kennedy, Chair of the Legislature's Economic Development Committee, "The ongoing efforts to sustain this cultural and tourist attraction is essential as we continue to work towards improving the quality of life for residents of South Buffalo, Lackawanna, and all of Erie County."

Kennedy went on to say the legislature will be bonding $2 million as part of the Botanical Gardens Master Plan reconstruction in 2007. This will allow the continuation of rehabilitative work as well as the addition of two specialized growing houses for plants originating from Florida and Panama.

"During the winter stretches of January and February when the weather is unbearable to enjoy the outdoors, the Botanical Gardens serves as a virtual refuge for county residents, offering them a beautiful look at a diverse selection of flowers and plants," Legislator Kozub, Chair of the Public Safety Committee, "This is a very worthy project."

Both legislators noted that the excellent condition of the Botanical Gardens and the fine quality of the displays of plants is strongly due to the hard work and commitment of the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens Society, workers and volunteers.

The Botanical Gardens are open every day from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. except for Christmas and Thanksgiving. Admission is $6 for adults, $5 for seniors and students with school identification, $3 for children age 6-13 and free for children under age 6 and for members. The spring flower show at the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens is under way and will run through April 15. The Botanical Gardens are owned by Erie County and operated by the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens Society. For more information, people can call 827-1584.

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