Paul Goodloe McIntire, a Charlottesville philanthropist, donated McIntire Park, comprising over 150 acres, to the City. This land did not include the land on which the Garden is located.

A wading pool and bath house were built.

The City added a nine-hole sand green golf course.

Several master plans for the park were developed, including the road project that would be known as the Meadowcreek Parkway (renamed in honor of Senator John W. Warner who earmarked the federal funds to build it).  Though many plans were put forth over the years none were adopted, and the road was put on hold.

At this time, although located in the City of Charlottesville, the park was classified as a Regional Park according to the City Comprehensive Plan of 2007.

Plans began anew to construct a parkway through McIntire Park using about 25 acres of parkland for the new two-lane interchange project.

A desire to have a botanical garden in Charlottesville was expressed by a few individuals.

A formal Park Master Planning Process adopted in 2009 by the City set the stage to determine the eventual plan for land use of the park after construction of the parkway was completed.

Many special interest groups came forward, some from the golfing community were determined the golf course should remain.  Others requested:  ball fields, soccer fields, and  a concrete bike.