The Bend of the River Botanic Garden Master Plan will transform an 88-acre site in Temple, Texas, into a regional destination. Located at the southeast quadrant of the intersection of interstate I35 and the Leon River, the site is composed of two parcels separately donated to the City of Temple and consolidated into a single property.  Public engagement was crucial to the project’s success; the community expressed a strong desire to use plants native to the Blackland Prairie ecosystem, restoring it in place of mowed turf and agricultural uses, while remediating contaminated soils. These plants will create habitat and reduce maintenance, while the garden collections themselves will feature more colorful and exotic botanics to entice visitors. The garden will retain the site’s previous uses for large, informal social gatherings while expanding its potential as a regional draw for day and nighttime events such as fundraisers and weddings.  The Forest and Lake preserve on the eastern portion of the site emphasizes ecological restoration, quiet contemplation, strolling, bird-watching, and artistic interpretation; the main plaza supports private events, while the event space will host festivals and performing arts.