Olbrich Gardens Public Meeting

Olbrich Gardens, one of Madison’s crown jewels, is getting underway with its first master planning update in more than 20 years. The goals of the project, as described in a media release, are to “to address aging infrastructure, explore potential garden expansion, and envision Olbrich's future.” The first two sessions of a series of public workshops take place Jan. 22, with identical agendas at noon and 6 p.m. including an overview of the planning process, workshop stations, and a chance to provide input. Activities for kids will be available, and registration is requested at olbrich.org/future (where input can also be shared). Future sessions are scheduled for March 17 and May 20.

media release: Olbrich Botanical Gardens is undergoing its first comprehensive master planning process in more than 20 years and is seeking public input during a series of meetings, the first of which is on Thursday, January 22. The widely regarded landscape architecture firm Reed Hilderbrand was chosen through a competitive selection process to lead the design team and the project as a whole.

“We welcomed over 393,000 visitors in 2025 and we know our community is growing more than ever. This plan will help us prepare to meet the needs of our growing community," said Tanya Zastrow, executive director of Olbrich Botanical Gardens.

The main goals of this process are to address aging infrastructure, explore potential garden expansion, and envision Olbrich's future - while at the same time addressing the needs of both a growing local community and tourism audience. The plan will undergo extensive financial analyses and will be presented as a phased development plan for implementation.

“We’re excited to imagine what Olbrich Botanical Gardens could become in the next 20 years, and to start planning how to get there,” said Zastrow. “It’s a pivotal point in Olbrich Botanical Gardens’ history and we’d like the public to be engaged in the process.”

“We know we want to be a place where you can surround yourself with nature and connect with your loved ones, friends, and community. We know want to be a leader in climate resiliency and sustainable gardening practices, and to teach future generations to love and care for the natural world. We want to be your public garden, so please join us at a meeting or fill out our online survey to share your hopes and dreams for Olbrich’s future with us.”

Public Workshop #1

Listening and Learning from the Community

January 22, 2026 at 12 p.m. or 6 p.m.* | Olbrich Botanical Gardens

*Two identical sessions - attend the one that’s best for your schedule

• Planning overview
• Open workshop with stations focused on key topics
• Opportunities for community input

In addition to the public workshop, input can also be shared via an online survey at olbrich.org/future.

Registration is appreciated but not required. Register at olbrich.org/future. Participants are welcome to bring children – there will be a kids area with activities and light snacks will be provided.

Additional Engagement Opportunities

Public Workshop #2 Provide Feedback

March 17, 2026  |  Time TBD  |  Olbrich Botanical Gardens

• Presentation to share comprehensive plan scenarios
• Small group Q&A and feedback sessions

Public Workshop #3 Celebrate the Plans

May 20, 2026  |  Time TBD  |  Olbrich Botanical Gardens

• Presentation of comprehensive plan final framework
• Small group Q&A and feedback sessions

Olbrich Botanical Gardens is located in Madison, Wisconsin on the shore of Lake Monona at 3330 Atwood Avenue. Visit Olbrich's website at www.olbrich.org.