Current Status

Summer 2024 update: This project has been identified as a potential bond project for
the 2024 proposed bond referendum. For more information on the bond referendum
visit carybonds.org.

Overview

North Carolina has one of the country's fastest growing Asian populations. According to
the most recent American Community Survey (ACS) from the Census Bureau, Cary’s
population identified as almost 21% Asian. For the past eight years, Cary has hosted the
Chinese Lantern Festival at Koka Booth Amphitheatre. From this festival the idea for a
year-round cultural celebration through an Asian Garden was born.

Creating an Asian garden that represents the diverse Asian community in Cary will
involve thoughtful planning, cultural sensitivity, and a deep understanding of the various
traditions, aesthetics, and symbolism present in Asian cultures. To design and create an
Asian garden for Cary, the process will start with understanding what symbolism and
elements are important to the community as well as looking at world class precedents.
Traditional elements of an Asian garden include water, rock gardens, winding paths,
bridges, and meditation areas. The garden could serve as a space for educational and
cultural programming. Ultimately, the garden should serve as a symbol of unity,
celebrating the multicultural fabric of Cary and fostering cross-cultural understanding,
appreciation, and harmony among its residents and visitors.

Project Schedule and Funding

If the 2024 bonds are approved, a project schedule of about five-to-seven years will be finalized
to include, as needed: land acquisition, master planning, design, bidding, construction,
and opening.

Contact

Phone: Dial 311 within Cary limits or (919) 469-4000 outside of Cary.
Email: 311@carync.gov

Cassie Schumacher-Georgopoulos, AICP, ASLA
Community Projects Director
Cassie.Schumacher-Georgopoulos@carync.gov