Local News
New visitor center approved for Kennesaw gardens
Kennesaw’s Smith-Gilbert Gardens, 2382 Pine Mountain Road, will have a new visitor’s center. Among the gardens’ features is the Hiram Butler House - built around 1882 and on the National Register of Historic Homes. Courtesy of Kennesaw
A new visitor’s center and improved parking will be provided for Kennesaw’s Smith-Gilbert Gardens. The Kennesaw City Council has agreed to pay $303,590 to Croy Engineering, the city’s engineer.
Cost breakdowns:
- Program management, $48,820.
- Civil engineering fees, $18,500.
- Landscape architect hardscape and garden design fees, $65,770.
- Architectural design, $170,500.
Funding will come from the 2011 and 2016 penny sales tax, also known as the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax. Smith-Gilbert Gardens, 2382 Pine Mountain Road, includes 16 acres with 3,000 species of plants; 30 sculptures; 71 bonsai trees; two koi ponds and a waterfall. Also on the grounds is the Hiram Butler House, built around 1882, that is on the National Register of Historic Homes.
Information: 770-919-0248, SmithGilbertGardens.com.
