University City Partners, University of North Carolina at Charlotte Botanical Gardens and North Carolina Native Plant Society have partnered to install Barton Creek Greenway Native Meadows, a community native plant project in University City. The organizations will work with community volunteers to install the meadow along Barton Creek Greenway on April 25. The Barton Creek Native Meadow will provide a unique experience along the one mile greenway trail, as well as a source of inspiration for community members to enjoy and plant their own native flowers, vegetables and herbs.
Barton Creek Native Meadow is a unique addition to the natural landscape in University City and will enhance the greenway experience for users and nearby residents. Greenway users will have access to the meadow from JW Clay Blvd and the UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens.
“University City offers the best of both worlds in that we have a vibrant urban center, but also gorgeous tree canopy and greenways that can be accessed by neighborhoods, University Research Park, the light rail or by parking at one of several entrances,” says Darlene Heater, Executive Director of University City Partners. “The Barton Creek Greenway Native Meadow is a project that we’re excited to support as we pursue development that enhances our connected greenways. The meadow will provide a breath of fresh air for greenway users and expand their experience while visiting the gorgeous botanical gardens at UNC Charlotte.”
The UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens were voted one of top three destinations to visit in Charlotte in 2019. The outdoor gardens are open every day of the week from dawn to dusk.
“The Botanical Gardens and Native Plant Society are committed to protecting the ecosystem through the use of native plants in this project,” said Ed Davis, Horticultural Supervisor and Landscape Architect of UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens. “Native plants are better for the environment and local pollinators, and they are beautiful as well. We hope that visitors will be inspired by the Barton Creek Native Meadows and incorporate native plants in their own home landscapes and gardens. We are appreciative of the opportunity to work with University City Partners on this project.”
Barton Creek Greenway provides access to and from Mallard Creek and Clark’s Creek Greenways, as well as JW Clay Blvd Station, UNC Charlotte, University Place, Atrium Health University City and office and retail centers in University City. The greenway’s direct link to Mallard Creek Greenway allows residential areas to immediately access 15 miles of existing trail. Barton Creek Greenway is a part of the Mecklenburg County Greenway Program.
The garden is made possible through leadership from UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens in design, plant acquisition and coordination; University City Partners in funding and coordination; and North Carolina Native Plant Society – Southern Piedmont Chapter in the area of installation. Adults and teens can volunteer to plant the Native Meadow on Sunday, April 25 by signing up here.