(SUMMIT, NJ) -- Reeves-Reed Arboretum is proud to announce major progress on A Path for All, its transformational accessibility initiative designed to ensure that every visitor—regardless of mobility, sensory, or neurodivergent needs—can fully experience the serenity and beauty of the gardens and grounds.
“We’ve made meaningful progress on several key fronts, and we’re incredibly grateful for the generosity and commitment of so many in our Arboretum family who have gotten us to this point,” shared Jackie Kondel, Executive Director of Reeves-Reed Arboretum. “Thanks to the support of local foundations and organizations, the project is gaining strong momentum.”
Construction will begin in earnest at the end of August, with JR Prisco selected as the project contractor. Initial site preparation is underway, and a groundbreaking ceremony is planned for early September.
Planned improvements include a fully connected, ADA-compliant pathway loop; expanded accessible parking areas; and a new outdoor patio and educational area for inclusive learning and community gathering.
“This project is about more than infrastructure—it’s about inclusion, connection, and creating a space where everyone belongs,” added Kondel. “We look forward to this next phase as A Path for All takes shape.”
The Arboretum extends heartfelt thanks to the following community funders whose recent grants are helping bring A Path for All to life:
* The Summit Foundation – $45,000 (2024); $12,000 (2025)
* The Hyde and Watson Foundation – $25,000 in honor of Charles E. and Joy C. Pettinos
* The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation’s National Paralysis Resource Center – $24,999
* E.J. Grassmann Trust – $15,000
* Barberry Foundation Inc. – $15,000
* Investors Foundation – $10,000
* Wallerstein Foundation – $10,000
* Citizens Philanthropic Foundation – $5,000
* Elks Club of Summit Lodge #1246 – $2,500
Though the Arboretum is nearing its fundraising goal, opportunities remain for community members to support this important project. To contribute or learn more, visit reeves-reedarboretum.org.
Reeves-Reed Arboretum is a non-profit public garden dedicated to engaging, educating, and enriching visitors to become better stewards of nature and the environment. This mission is achieved through the care and utilization of the historic estate and gardens. Reeves-Reed Arboretum is listed on the National and State Registers of Historic Places.
LEGEND:
1) Access point to ADA accessible route to north of Visitors Center
2) Proposed masonry stair with ornamental gate and handrails
3) ADA accessible ramp with exposed aggregate paving surface to traverse grade from Upper Terrace to lower accessible routes
4) Proposed natural stone staircase through hillside planting
5) Resting area/overlook to lower gardens
6) Proposed exposed aggregate paving with wrought iron handrails on 2 sides
7) Bluestone landing at end of The Keller Azalea Gardn and accessible ramp from Upper Terrace & Visitors Center
8) ADA accessible ramp with pervious pavement
All rendering photos are courtesy of the project’s landscape architect, J. Kest & Co.
