Denver Botanic Gardens Breaks Ground on Freyer - Newman Center

Denver Botanic Gardens broke ground yesterday on the Freyer - Newman Center, the final part of a four-phase Master Development Plan that began in 2007. The LEED GOLD building, designed by Denver’s Davis Partnership Architects, will provide more accessible and enriching public engagement with an auditorium, four art galleries, a new library, six classrooms, a coffee shop and 144 more parking spots. Important plant science research and conservation efforts will grow with more advanced laboratories and larger herbaria for vascular plants, mushrooms and slime molds. A children’s zone will be created in the Boettcher Memorial Center’s Mitchell Hall. The $42 million project – $37.5 million for the Freyer - Newman Center and $4.5 million for the renovation of the Boettcher Memorial Center – is slated for completion in late 2019.

 
“As one of the first 2017 General Obligation Bond-supported projects to break ground, the Freyer - Newman Center is an outstanding example of how these community approved investments can move a project to reality and enhance our world-class museums and culturals,” says Mayor Michael B. Hancock. “Institutions like Denver Botanic Gardens provide opportunities for our residents and visitors of all ages and backgrounds to learn, have fun and explore together. I’m looking forward to the opening of this new center and the wonderful experiences it will bring to the Gardens.”

Brian Vogt, CEO of Denver Botanic Gardens adds, “We are all filled with gratitude as we begin the final chapter of our Master Development Plan with this stellar project. Deep appreciation goes to Denver voters for their support of the 2017 General Obligation Bond and to all of the donors, designers, builders, neighbors, staff and volunteers who are taking us to the finish line.”