The objective of the Bodhi tree garden project at the Harris Road Vihara was to provide wheelchair access to the bodhi tree and back garden and, at the same time, improve the aesthetic appearance of the garden with uniform planting, including suitable natives, a water feature and ambient lighting and improved seating. The project involved removing the old pathway and tiles, and laying a wheelchair-accessible pathway leading from the concrete sheltered area curving around the feijoa tree and linking with a rectangular eco-decking platform. Work began in June 2024 and the main parts of the project were completed within four months. Two last features to come are the candle stand and water feeds to the tree, which should be installed by the end of December.
Total cost approximated $115,000, of which more than half was covered by donations. We wish to express our gratitude to the donors for their contributions and to those who continue to donate. If you are interested in helping us meet the cost of the project, you can find information here. We are also appreciative of those who gave significant time and energy into designing the garden, overseeing the construction work and attending to new planting.
It was heartening to see a boy in a wheelchair and a woman with a walker in the Bodhi garden, days after the project was completed; people are appreciative of ATBA’s new asset.
Redevelopment of the Bodhi tree garden told in pictures
Click on photos to enlarge.
