(April 22, 2021)
Rep. Christina SappeyXXXXX
State Rep. Christina Sappey, D-Chester, and House Democratic Policy Committee Chairman Ryan Bizzarro, D-Erie, hosted a special hearing on Pennsylvania public gardens today at Longwood Gardens in East Marlborough Township. Policy Committee members received testimony focusing on the economic impact, green job development, environmental and educational contributions of public gardens in Pennsylvania. Approximately 20 legislators heard testimony from garden advocates from across the state, including Casey Sclar, executive director of the American Public Gardens Association; Paul B. Redman, president and CEO of Longwood Gardens; Maitreyi Roy, executive director of Bartram’s Garden; and Richard Piacentini, president and CEO of Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. They also received a tour of Longwood’s conservation, horticulture research, and education facilities located on the grounds. “Pennsylvania’s public gardens have always played an important role in our communities,” said Sappey. “We’re extremely fortunate to have Longwood here in Chester County, but they are known throughout the globe for world-class exhibits, learning opportunities, performances and outstanding conservation. Public gardens, like Longwood, also encourage tourism and economic development. So, we benefit from public gardens in numerous ways.” “We hope today’s hearing raised awareness of the positive economic, Read more