Delaware Center for Horticulture decides not to relocate

It looks like after a thorough study and research, the Delaware Center for Horticulture which has been looking for a new home is now staying put.

The news comes after the Board of Directors met this week to decide on whether or not the DCH operations should remain in Trolley Square. Officials have decided to withdraw their proposal for the Harper-Thiel property in Wilmington where the group was hoping to expand.

“The Harper-Thiel site was an intriguing prospect, and many community partners expressed enthusiasm for the DCH to relocate to that neighborhood, but we have determined that this option is not feasible for us at this time,” said Andrew Bunting, President of the DCH Board of Directors.

Moving forward with the Harper-Thiel property on Miller Road would have forced the organization to raise at least $4.8 million. That estimated price would have included everything from prep work to construction, but the Board thought that would have been too costly due to the struggling economy. However officials from DCH acknowledge that many supporters were already very dedicated to the project.

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“We are very grateful for the outpouring of support we experienced from the civic leaders and community members who helped us explore the feasibility of Harper-Thiel,” said Pam Sapko, DCH Executive Director.

In the meantime, officials have set their minds to continue with its a capital campaign to renovate and expand DCH’s current venue.  More than $1.7 million has been raised prior to the campaign being put on hold. However, fundraising goals and plans to renovate the Trolley Square property will not be discussed until an announcement in the coming months.

“After 35 years of being based in Wilmington, the DCH will continue its urban greening efforts in all of the City’s neighborhoods – including the area around Harper-Thiel – as well as extending our programs to other towns throughout the State,” added Sapko.

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