By admin 
TUCSON, Ariz. (13 News) – Tohono Chul, the 49-acre botanical garden near W. Ina Road and N. Paseo del Norte, will unveil its new long-term master plan, “Sonoran Oasis,” at a public open house Thursday, Oct. 22, from 5 to 7 p.m. in the Garden Pavilion.
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The 10- to 15-year vision is rooted in Tohono Chul’s 40-year legacy and shaped by more than 800 visitors, members, volunteers, staff and community partners through surveys, workshops and open houses.
The plan focuses on preserving what visitors love while improving guest experience with more shade, universally accessible paths, expanded gathering, dining, shopping and exploration spaces, and rehabilitated historic buildings including the Bistro, Exhibit House and Lomaki House.
It also shifts toward layered, interconnected native plant communities to better support wildlife, conserve resources, and build resilience to drought, extreme heat and a changing climate.
“We’ve also really looked at the ecology of this site,” said Jack Dash, Tohono Chul gardens and facilities manager. “To make sure that we’re not only designing this master plan for the greatest enjoyment of our human visitors, but also to support the incredible diversity of wildlife that we share this landscape with.”
Dash said the garden’s oldest building dates to 1937 and the spaces are “no longer meeting the requirements of the nearly hundred thousand visitors that we see each year.”
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Creating a memorable arrival that immediately immerses guests in the Sonoran Desert.
What’s in the “Sonoran Oasis” plan?
- Developing visible, vibrant spaces with expanded amenities for gathering, dining, shopping and exploration.
- Protecting and restoring native landscapes while creating more immersive, shaded gardens and walkways.
- Preserving and rehabilitating historic buildings, including the Bistro, Exhibit House and Lomaki House.
- Strengthening connections to place by framing views of the Catalina Mountains and the broader Sonoran Desert.
- Improving wayfinding, comfort and accessibility through universally accessible paths, clear routes and recognizable destinations.
- Expanding facilities and gardens for nature-based education and discovery for all ages.
- Creating more functional facilities for staff, volunteers and behind-the-scenes operations.
Town of Oro Valley support
Oro Valley Councilmember Mary Murphy shared support in a statement to 13 News, in part, quote:
“Tohono Chul has been an amazing partner with the town of Oro Valley. We value their strong dedication in bringing the arts and culture of the Sonoran Desert to our residents in a meaningful and thoughtful way.”
Tohono Chul is expected to update the Oro Valley Town Council on Wednesday, Oct. 21, before Thursday’s public open house.
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