Photo: DDBGS via Facebook
On October 26, Northern Development’s Board of Directors approved a $300,000 Economic Infrastructure grant for the David Douglas Botanical Garden Society (DDBGS) to support the second phase of their expansion of botanical gardens to a 23-acre parcel of land on the University of Northern BC’s campus in Prince George.
“This funding approval is the final piece that we needed before beginning phase two of our expansion project,” said Linda Naess, president, DDBGS. “Prior to beginning this journey, we hosted more than 40 stakeholder sessions with various organizations and the resounding message we heard is that the community needs more economic diversification and more high-quality experiences for visitors and residents to play, relax and discover the natural wonders of Prince George.”
The garden will be maintained by DDBGS under professional horticultural standards and will be accessible to all people. Accessibility will be included in the design of the garden, including non-slip walkways, low slope ramps, resting benches, safety signage and other inclusive features.
Phase 2 includes the construction of a visitor kiosk, accessible deck, public washroom, parking lot, axial walkway, maze, landscaping and other amenities at an estimated cost of $1.2 million. The Visitor Kiosk is a donated passive house demonstration building that will feature a reception area, washrooms and deck.
Work is expected to wrap up by the end of 2023, with the third and fourth phases to follow.
Northern Development’s grant came through the Economic Infrastructure funding program. This program support projects of regional and local significance that contribute to stronger communities and economic growth.
