First of shuttered Mitchell Park domes re-opens

The Show Dome at the Mitchell Park Conservatory was re-opened two days ahead of schedule, several months after structural concerns forced the facility to close. (All photos by Wyatt Massey)
County Executive Chris Abele welcomed guests and answered questions. The fixes that allowed the re-opening are temporary, he said, adding that he would like to hear input from the public about what to do long term.
Wire mesh was added around the inside of the Dome to protect visitors. The mesh has a lifespan of six to 10 years, Abele said. Pieces of concrete fell in 2008 and 2015, which prompted a structural review.
The Show Dome was free for visitors during the re-opening, which drew dozens of people.
Abele said the Domes used to see 500,000 people a year. "It would be great to draw that kind of turnout" again, he said. Every year between 2006 and 2014, the Domes posted a net loss of at least $600,000.
Flowers are in full bloom in the lobby of the Domes.
Construction of the Domes was completed in 1967 and county officials are asking residents to share ideas about what to do next with the structure.
The Tropical Dome will be fixed with wire mesh next, a process that takes six to eight weeks once it is started.

The Show Dome at the Mitchell Park Conservatory was re-opened for visitors on April 29, several months after it was closed due to structural problems. Visitors toured the dome, admired the plant life and spoke with County Executive Chris Abele, who welcomed guests.

Abele said the fixes that allowed the re-opening are temporary. He added that he would like input from residents, businesses, nonprofits, academics and others about what to do with the Domes over the long term.

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