Drexel University and the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society celebrated the completion and opening of a new garden for the Drexel community and the public. Drexel President John Fry and PHS President Matt Rader marked the occasion with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on May 12. Attendees at the event were limited and COVID-19 restrictions and guidelines were enforced.
“As we look to get back to a normal campus life we now have this garden to delight us in this season of rebirth,” Fry said. “I want to thank the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society and their very talented garden designers for transforming this space on Drexel’s campus.”
After a long delay caused by the pandemic, the Gateway Garden at Drexel University, brought to life by PHS, located at 32nd and Market Streets will welcome Drexel students, faculty, professional staff, alumni and visitors to a hub of horticultural excellence.
In describing the collaboration between Drexel and PHS, Rader stated, “At PHS, we know that great gardens nurture healthy communities, and we are so excited to partner with Drexel to introduce this fabulous new Gateway Garden!”
The garden was designed by Robinson, Anderson, Summers, Inc. and PHS. The plantings reflect Drexel’s diverse global culture with varieties from around the world. Visitors can enjoy the beauty and variety of seasonal horticulture, outdoor seating and study areas, and rotating performances and programs year-round.
In 2013, Drexel acquired the property located at 3161-67 Market Street, a triangular-shaped parcel on the north side of Market Street between JFK Boulevard and 32nd Street that formerly housed a Firestone auto repair shop.
In addition to its renowned Philadelphia Flower Show, PHS is highly regarded for its gardening and landscapes work in more than 250 neighborhoods and its stewardship of more than 200 acres of treasured Philadelphia public gardens and spaces including Logan Square, The Azalea Garden, The PHS Pop Up Gardens in South Philadelphia and Manayunk, and the gardens at the Philadelphia Naval Yard.
More information about the Gateway Garden at Drexel is available at this link.