By TRICIA NEAL, CJ Staff Writer
The Children’s Botanical Garden of South Central Kentucky, located near the Pulaski County Public Library’s downtown branch, is nearly complete.
Plans are underway to construct an educational “Train Depot” in the garden.
“Our Train Depot is the final piece of hard cape that will be built in our garden,” said Marvin Kinch, chairman of construction of the garden. “Doug Wilburn, owner of D.W. Wilburn Construction, has agreed to donate and construct this structure, which will be used to teach our youth about horticulture and our environment.”
Wilburn recently met with designer Jerry Wayne Dixon, master gardener co-chair Curt Wallace, and Downtown Somerset Development Corporation director Gib Gosser to finalize plans for the Train Depot.
The rest of the garden is also beginning to take shape.
“Quotes for the large trees have already been secured and the contract has been awarded,” Gosser said. “We are currently mailing out specification for quotes from contractors for the shrubs and small trees, wrought iron, aluminum fencing and irrigation system. We hope to have these items completed and installed by April 1.”
Native plants are expected to be placed in the ground in March and April, weather permitting.
Children’s librarian Carol Sexton says the community can assist in completing the garden.
“The Lake Cumberland Master Gardeners volunteered to construct our garden, however donations are needed to help with the labor costs,” she said.
Topiaries for the garden have been purchased by library patrons with the exception of a teddy bear, valued at $158, and “Nessie and Hump,” valued at $405.
Bricks and granite blocks can also be purchased for $100 and $250, respectively. A message can be engraved on the bricks and blocks.
All donations are tax deductible. The Library Foundation is a 501c3 non-profit organization.
Dedication of the Children’s Garden is tentatively set for May 15.
