First, let me say a heartfelt thanks for your past support of the Mitchell Park Domes. As a member, donor, event attendee, volunteer — you have each demonstrated a love of The Domes. You have been here for The Domes in so many small (and some not-so-small) ways. And for that, I am truly grateful.
This past year, Team Domes (our staff and volunteer leaders) has been hard at work ensuring that Milwaukee’s only indoor horticultural conservatory is here for our community — today and for generations to come.
And, although we still have work ahead of us, we achieved a huge win this month. Milwaukee County’s Board of Supervisors unanimously voted to support our Domes Reimagined plan. Included in that vote is a financial commitment of $30M toward a total project cost of $134M.
This is the first time in decades (possibly ever!) that Milwaukee County officials have unitedly endorsed a plan and future for the Mitchell Park Domes.
What is the Domes Reimagined plan?
Instead of just putting The Domes back the way they were, we have imagined a new future for our beloved horticultural oasis. Of course, we are addressing the decades of deferred maintenance, but we are also creatively transforming The Domes into a cultural icon well positioned to achieve its true purpose: creating a world inspired and healed by nature. This plan also positions the conservatory to have a sustainable business model, ensuring that we are able to put away funds for future maintenance needs.
We have created this website so you can follow our progress. Note that there is a link to this page at the top of our MilwaukeeDomes.org website.
What’s next?
Now that we have the County’s commitment, we are certainly full steam ahead. We are now approaching the State to request that they match a portion of the County’s commitment.
As we forge this new path, it is fair to say we have never needed support more than right at this moment. Together, we can shepherd in an exciting new future. I hope our Domes family will consider taking two important actions:
1) Reach out to Governor Evers and your other elected officials to ask for their support. Click here for information about how to contact the Governor and legislature.
2) Make a gift.
The Domes are a homegrown treasure in our city. For some, they are an iconic piece of the Milwaukee skyline. For others, they are an integral part of childhood and family memories. But for everyone who passes through our doors, they are a place that brings peace and connection to nature.
Thank you for standing with us in preserving the magic and wonder of The Domes.
For the love of nature,
Christa Beall Diefenbach
Executive Director, Friends of the Domes
