Historic Outdoor Attraction Getting Major Upgrade In Union County

SUMMIT, NJ - The historic Reeves-Reed Arboretum is getting new, accessible pathways in 2026.

City and arboretum officials broke ground on "A Path For All" project on Thursday during a ceremony with donors, trustees, staff and others. Through expanded ramps and walkways, the city says this will be a space where "everyone can enjoy all the most beautiful parts of the grounds" by next spring.

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"This important initiative reflects our deep commitment to enhancing the physical and experiential connection visitors have with the beauty of our Arboretum," Reeves-Reed says. Along with the pathways, they are also looking to add more areas for accessible parking and build a new outdoor patio and education space.

During construction, some areas of the grounds will be temporarily closed. Programs, events and regular visits will not be affected. There is a shift in parking arrangements due to the ongoing work:

• Only on-street parking is available Monday through Friday. The lot is closed.
• The parking will be open on the weekends.
• There will be limited handicap parking available during construction, but drop-off is also permitted.

"This is a big asset for Summit residents and visitors, as the beautiful grounds of the arboretum will be accessible to all," Mayor Elizabeth Fagan told Patch. "The arboretum has been a treasure for our region and this ensures future generations can all continue to enjoy this space. "

Opening in 1974, The Reeves-Reed Arboretum is home to an estate and gardens that display design trends from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. A member of the National and State Registers of Historic Places, the space features natural woodlands, open vistas and more formal garden scenes. Staff say the arboretum's mission is "preserving the past and imagining the future of American gardening."

The pathways project is being funded through a capital campaign supported by donations from residents, foundations, and corporations. Patch is awaiting a response from city officials on the total cost of the project.