Concerns raised on proposed pavilion at Green Spring Gardens

Members of the gardening community raised some concerns about the Park Authority’s plan for a large pavilion at Green Spring Gardens at a meeting on the project on Feb. 6.

The 30 by 35-square-foot pavilion would be big enough to hold 100 people. It would be used as an outdoor classroom for school field trips and other educational programs.

The total cost of the structure – $250,000 – would be completely paid for by the Friends of Green Spring (FROGS).

A major concern among those at the well-attended meeting is the pavilion’s impact on the nearby stream valley and woodlands. The pavilion would have a concrete floor and would be sited on a slope next to the edible garden.

Related story: Pavilion planned for Green Spring Gardens

A statement by a local gardener who complained that the pavilion would result in runoff into the stream and harm the wetlands ecosystem drew applause from the audience. Others said it would be out of place next to the gardens and would block the path to the lower area

The project manager, Doug Tipsword, said the pavilion is not in the Turkeycock Run resource protection area and would not impact an existing nearby culvert. He said gutters and rain barrels would be installed to collect rainwater for use in the gardens.

One attendee who supports the pavilion said it’s needed because the Horticultural Center doesn’t have enough space for the many children’s activities the park hosts. In 2024, more than 5,000 children visited Green Spring Gardens on school field trips.

Others questioned whether the pavilion is a done deal. “Nothing is set in stone,” Tipsword responded. Although FROGS envisions a simple structure with a split roof, Park Authority staff displayed several alternate design options.

FROGS also earmarked $50,000 for electricity and water at the pavilion. Whether that will happen depends on which design is selected and how much it costs.

Comments will be accepted online through Feb. 28.