Governor Hochul Announces Start of Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens’ Large Expansion and Renovation Project

Governor Kathy Hochul today 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,” Governor 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 — 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, art collaborations, and more. 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 & 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 percent of the needed funding for the completion of the project and 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.

WNYREDC Co-Chair and Campus Labs Co-Founder Eric Reich said, “The past goal of botanical gardens was simply to study plants, but now we are seeing the important role they play in the community; giving people an opportunity to slow down, connect with each other, and appreciate the natural world. The Western New York Regional Economic Development Council is proud to support the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, a project that is proven to contribute to the economic growth of the region.”

WNYREDC Co-Chair and Canisius University President Steve Stoute said, “Thanks to Governor Hochul this beloved historical site is expanding its offerings to attract new visitors for education, celebrations, and family fun time. We look forward to seeing the finished project, which will enhance the garden’s versatility and increase community engagement in this vibrant and unique environment.”

Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz said, “The Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens are an irreplaceable part of our cultural mosaic in Erie County and for more than a century this place has attracted visitors at all times of year, enjoying the many varieties of plant life here as well as the historic and peaceful atmosphere inside the Gardens themselves. Erie County has invested millions of dollars in this facility to preserve and maintain it for future generations, and we are proud to be a part of the Botanical Gardens’ exciting next chapter, one which will expand the campus footprint, improve visitors’ experiences and increase educational offerings. This project will take the Gardens to the next level and I thank Governor Hochul for her vision in supporting this transformation as this historic facility begins its next phase.”

Buffalo Mayor Christopher P. Scanlon said, “This transformative expansion marks a major milestone in a years-long effort to ensure the Gardens remain a vibrant, accessible, and inspiring space for generations to come. As South District Council Member, I was proud to provide funding for the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens—one of the most cherished cultural and environmental assets in our city and I’m excited to see this project move forward. I want to thank Governor Hochul, Empire State Development, Erie County, and the Botanical Gardens team for their dedication and commitment to this treasured asset in South Buffalo."

Lackawanna Mayor Annette Iafallo said, “Congratulations to the Botanical Gardens - one of our area’s most beloved community assets — on its exciting expansion project, which will allow the garden's rich history of educational, cultural and community programming for all ages to continue and grow for decades to come. We thank our many state, county and local government partners for their advocacy and financial support of this important project.”

State Senator April N. M. Baskin said, “When I was a County Legislator, I had the pleasure of working with former Botanical Gardens' executive directors David Swarts and the late Mark Mortenson, my dear friend, whose collective vision has made this project a reality. Now as a State Senator, I proudly support the state's investment in this regional asset. The Botanical Gardens are a gem whose expansion will undoubtedly continue to uplift valuable cultural experiences in Western New York.”

Assemblymember Patrick Burke said, “The Botanical Gardens are more than a Buffalo treasure — they are a regional destination that brings beauty, education and economic activity to our community. This expansion ensures that legacy will grow for generations to come and I’m proud to have played a part in making this possible.”

About Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens
Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization that welcomes all to enjoy its living plant collections, breathtaking 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.

About Empire State Development
Empire State Development is New York’s chief economic development agency, and promotes business growth, job creation, and greater economic opportunity throughout the state. With offices in each of the state's 10 regions, ESD oversees the Regional Economic Development Councils, supports broadband equity through the ConnectALL office, and is growing the workforce of tomorrow through the Office of Strategic Workforce Development. The agency engages with emerging and next generation industries like clean energy and semiconductor manufacturing looking to grow in New York State, operates a network of assistance centers to help small businesses grow and succeed, and promotes the state's world class tourism destinations through I LOVE NY. For more information, please visit esd.ny.gov, and connect with ESD on LinkedIn, Facebook and X.