Ringland Johnson named Nicholas Conservatory project contractor

From press release

The Rockford Park District Board of Commissioners has approved a $7.1 million contract with Ringland Johnson, Inc., to begin construction of the Nicholas Conservatory & Gardens project.

The Conservatory’s conceptual design was approved at the Feb. 28, 2006, board meeting, and, at that time, fund-raising efforts began as the initial donation of $21 million from the Nicholas family was presented to the Board of Commissioners.

The Conservatory project was identified as the “centerpiece capital project” for the Rockford Park District’s Centennial celebration. The fund-raising campaign goal was met in April 2009.

The groundbreaking ceremony was Aug. 4, and construction has commenced. The goal is for the project to be substantially completed by August 2010, with a grand opening scheduled for December 2010.

Upon its completion, the Nicholas Conservatory will be the third-largest in Illinois and will feature changing floral exhibits and a year-round exhibition of tropical trees, plants and flowers. The lobby area will be available to rent for private receptions, meetings, weddings, and other catered events for groups up to 150. A private meeting room will also be used to hold educational seminars, not-for-profit organizations’ meetings, and various group gatherings.

Scope of work

The following represents the scope of work for Phase I development:

* Conservatory—tropical plantings

* Growing greenhouse

* Visitors Center/Reception area

* Private meeting room

* Goethermal heating/cooling system

* Photovoltaic solar panels

* Minimal site development and landscape plantings

* Multiple interior and exterior sculptures

* Parking and walkways

* Rec Path restroom/concession building

Rockford Park District Board President Doug Brooks said: “The Nicholas family came forward in February 2006 as the lead donor for the project, and since then, over 900 supporters have generously donated to this project. The Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens will be a showcase for the entire region enhancing Rockford’s riverfront. This project, being constructed by local contractor Ringland Johnson, Inc., will employ a workforce here in Rockford, which also is an economic benefit to our community.”

For more information, contact Jim Reid at (815) 987-8863.