Krohn Conservatory to undergo major renovations

Published July 14, 2009 at 12:00 a.m.
Cincinnati's Krohn Conservatoryis one of the jewels of the Cincinnati Park system and boasts more than3,500 plant species from around the world within its four separategreenhouse exhibits - Fern House, Palm House, Desert House and ShowHouse. A local landmark, the conservatory is located inEden Parkand was built in 1933 during the Art Deco era. It serves as adestination for naturalists visiting Cincinnati and is a populartourist attraction throughout the year.

TheConservatory also plays host to a number of marquee events throughoutthe year such as the springtime Butterfly Show and the live nativityscene erected each holiday season.

After 75 years of service though, Park Board officials say that majorrenovations are needed to keep the Conservatory in working order. Therenovation work will take over a month, cost approximately $200,000 andforce the Conservatory to close during that time.

Theimpetus to move ahead with such major renovation work at this time wasthe collapse of the sewer system in front of the Krohn Conservatory. As a result, the facility will be closed from July 20 through August28, with a re-opening celebration planned for Saturday, August 29.

According to Park Board officials, the renovation work will rebuild thefloor of the Show House, rebuild the three exit doors of the buildingto original design specifications, repair the collapsed drainage systemthat was originally installed in 1933, and will install a new catwalkin the Fern Room to allow for maintenance to the new mist wateringsystem that was installed at the beginning of this year.

Officialsnote that while the renovation work takes place, the surroundinggardens that follow the theme of historic victory gardens with edibleplants will remain open to the public.  The free wireless internet atKrohn will also remain in service so that visitors may continue toaccess the internet while visiting the facility.

Park Boardofficials also note that the fall floral show, "Backyard Birds &Wildlife," will commence on Saturday, September 12 and continue throughNovember 1 with the other fall programs and events.

Those looking for additional information are instructed to contact Andrea Schepmann at (513) 421-5707.

Writer: Randy Simes
Photography by Amber Kersley


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