HUD Funds Sensory Garden Project

Gardening is no longer a hobby only enjoyed by those who can see. With the revitalization of the Wynnewood Valley Park's Garden for the Blind, even the disabled can take in nature's beauty.

The newly-improved handicapped accessible garden in Lower Merion celebrated its transformation at a ribbon-cutting dedication ceremony on May 9, 2011. The project was partially funded by a $100,000 Community Development Block Grant from HUD. Deputy Regional Administrator Brenda Laroche and Community Development and Planning staff member Sharon Maclean attended the event.

The Rotary Club of Ardmore originally built and dedicated the sensory garden to the blind in 1977, including iron guide railings and plant identification plates in Braille in the garden's design. After receiving a gift of 25 cherry trees from the Rotary Club of Tokyo, the garden became a symbol of international friendship.

In the years since its creation, the garden fell to disrepair. Reconstruction began in 2010 after funds were contributed from various private, local and federal sources. The installation of 3,500 plants, trees and shrubs was completed last fall by area students. Their workings have now bloomed, and Lower Merion officials, Ardmore Rotarians and community members attended the ceremony to enjoy the unique environment.