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
By Carolyn Cunningham
Nov 16, 2017A 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.
