South Suburban launched a new Comprehensive Vision, Strategic, and Facility Plan for The Hudson Gardens & Event Center. This plan will guide the botanical gardens’ priorities and vision for the next 10 years. It includes technical and financial analysis, as well as strategic planning for sustainability and enjoyment for generations to come.

The South Suburban Board of Directors approved the plan at their July 9 business meeting.

Community members were invited to share input through surveys, interviews, public meetings and interactive events. Feedback clearly indicated that Hudson Gardens is deeply valued as both a peaceful retreat and active community gathering space.

Hudson Gardens strives for a balanced path forward. The following focus areas are identified for continued success:

• Keep the current breadth of services and offerings, but seek enhancements
• Improve the core infrastructure before adding new amenities
• Invest in security, accessibility, and visitor experience
• Continue embracing flexibility while defining clearer visitor pathways
• Strengthen partnerships and funding to sustain diverse offerings
• Align with South Suburban’s Guiding Principles

To ensure Hudson Gardens remains a cherished destination, the focus will be to preserve the breadth of its offerings while making thoughtful improvements that support long-term sustainability. It also involves expanding partnerships, securing new funding sources, and aligning closely with South Suburban's Guiding Principles.

This strategy emphasizes finding the right balance between gardens, events, and educational programs, while enhancing visitor support, strengthening operational flexibility, and reintroducing live performances in a way that respects Hudson Gardens' unique character. Before bringing back multiple large-scale live performances, Hudson Gardens must secure parking and traffic management, assess infrastructure and costs, and explore lasting partnerships.

Together these strategies will help cultivate the future of Hudson Gardens.

Read the entire plan at gameplan.ssprd.org/hudson-gardens-vision-plan and learn more about Hudson Gardens at hudsongardens.org.