The plan for renovating the Japanese Garden in Lithia Park has been suspended, at least for the time being. The prospective donor for the project has concluded it should be deferred and reconsidered. The donor’s concern is that a project, which proponents had envisioned as a contribution to community harmony and enduring cultural value has become a source of genuine community dissension.  

The Ashland Parks and Recreation Commission, in a split vote, had decided at its regular meeting last Monday, January 28, 2019, to move forward with the Japanese Garden plans, as proposed by landscape designer, Toru Tanaka.  The most controversial aspect of the proposed design involved removal of two existing Douglas Fir trees.
 
With funding for the project on hold, APRC Director, Michael A. Black, announced today the project will not proceed this year and its future is under review.  Speaking on behalf of the Ashland Parks and Recreation Commission and the donor, Black thanked the many supporters of the project and all those who provided input on it.