Longview, TX — The vision to build a new arboretum facility for Longview is beginning to take shape, and the Arboretum Master planning Committee is asking the public to provide input. A public meeting will be held from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., Tuesday, July 31, at the Maude Cobb Activity Center, 100 Grand Blvd., to discuss the future development of the Longview Arboretum. Representatives from the renowned Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center will assist in the planning discussions.

According to Director of Community Services Laura Hill, “It is an honor to have representatives from the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center assisting with the development of the Longview Arboretum. This is a very important time for the future of the arboretum as we map out short-term and long-term plans for an arboretum that we know will be a wonderful asset for Longview.”

The Longview Arboretum is planned for development on a 28.62-acre city-owned site adjacent to the Maude Cobb Convention and Activity Complex. During 2010, a council-appointed committee included the arboretum among several goals and projects in the Vision 2015 Strategic Planning Process. The initial dream for the arboretum was championed by the late Dencil Marsh, a long time Longview resident. The effort is currently led by a committee of volunteers from throughout the community chaired by Bob Metzler.

Lunch will be available at the public meeting for a donation, but please RSVP no later than July 26 to 903-237-1398.