Marie Selby Botanical Gardens presents Phase 2 site plan for Downtown Sarasota campus

The City of Sarasota's Planning Board convened on August 7, 2025, to discuss the highly anticipated Phase 2 expansion of the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. This meeting marked a significant step forward for the project, which aims to enhance the gardens' infrastructure and visitor experience.

Jennifer Ramonecki, the president and CEO of Selby Gardens, presented the plans, emphasizing the project's importance to the community. "This master plan is a gift to our community," she stated, highlighting the support from 24 trustees, 80 staff members, and over 6,000 private donors who have contributed more than $115 million to the initiative.

Phase 2 will replace aging infrastructure with a new conservatory complex and learning pavilion, designed to showcase over 20,000 plants from Selby Gardens' living research collections. The project promises to incorporate sustainable practices, including 100% renewable energy and hurricane-resilient facilities, ensuring the preservation of the gardens' valuable collections.

The design team confirmed that the project aligns with previously established development standards, with no requests for variances or special exceptions. Chris Chunfione, a landscape architect involved in the project, reiterated that the plans adhere to the guidelines set forth in the 2021 master plan, ensuring consistency with community input and city regulations.

The board's discussions also touched on the absence of new event spaces or changes to operational hours, maintaining the gardens' commitment to its neighbors. As the meeting progressed, the planning board expressed support for the project, recognizing its potential to transform the botanical gardens into a world-class destination for plant research and environmental education.

As the project moves forward, the community can anticipate a revitalized Selby Gardens that not only preserves its rich botanical heritage but also enhances educational opportunities for future generations.