Click here to see pictures of the project
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, the candle stand and water feeds to the tree, were installed at the end of November.
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. 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. Since the rejuvenation of the Bodhi garden, the Vihara has seen visitors on a daily basis, and a common sight is devotees sweeping leaves and cleaning the area. We wish to thank those who are keeping the bodhi garden tidy and well-maintained.
The AGM day, 1 December 2024, was a timely occasion to have a small ceremony to celebrate the completion of the redevelopment of the Vihara Bodhi Garden. Ajahn Kusalacitto and Bhante Kavidhaja led those present in Itipiso chanting at the Bodhi tree. We are grateful to all volunteers who made this project possible, and thank-you very much to our generous donors who are helping the project approach its funding goal. Anumodana.
If you are interested in helping us meet the cost of the project, you can find information here.
