ORLANDO, Fla. \u2014\u00a0It\u2019s a popular place to enjoy nature, listen to music and just relax near the heart of Orlando, and now city leaders are considering plans to transform Leu Gardens into a more distinct destination.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
Before the plans are set, though, they are holding a community meeting Monday night at 6 p.m. at Leu Gardens to allow residents to ask questions and give their input on the proposed project.<\/p>\n
What You Need To Know<\/p>\n
Orlando city leaders are looking at plans to add a performance space and restaurant on the banks of Lake Rowena at Leu Gardens
\nLeu Gardens executive director Jennifer D\u2019hollander said planning is still in the early stages, and the Orlando City Council would control the project’s budget
\nShe said the\u00a0funding might include a mix of city dollars and philanthropy
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A public forum is planned for 6 p.m. Monday night at Leu Gardens to give residents a chance to ask questions and give input on the project<\/p>\n
The butterfly garden at Leu Gardens is a popular spot, and during a recent trip, children on a field trip were buzzing about all the bees and monarchs alighting on the flowers there.<\/p>\n
The rose garden is another colorful stop, and Oviedo resident Jeremy Lawrence, who was chaperoning the group for his daughter as the students took part in a scavenger hunt, said it was a great place for kids to spend some time outdoors.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s great,” he said. “Flowers are in bloom. The kids are running around having a good time, and there\u2019s a lot for them to do and see,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Leu Gardens executive director Jennifer D\u2019hollander said\u00a0almost 300,000 people visited last year. She said the city\u2019s new master plan for Leu Gardens will hopefully help attract even more. <\/p>\n
The idea, she said, is to preserve the natural landscape and connect people with more activities near the lake.<\/p>\n
Renderings of the project show a lakeside amphitheater for concerts and shows, and a new restaurant overlooking the water.<\/p>\n
We’re just a few days away from our Community Meeting on Oct. 27, where we will share more about the Harry P. Leu Gardens Master Plan. We’re excited to connect with our community to learn your ideas as the Gardens continue to grow.
RSVP: https:\/\/t.co\/cAHZBdJIAV<\/a> pic.twitter.com\/j9KwGPrbM4<\/a><\/p>\n