John English Arboretum
For several years, the Beautification Committee has envisioned the creation of an arboretum in Bloomington. An arboretum is a collection of trees intended to serve as a unique educational and informational resource for citizens to learn more about tree species native to the region. Bloomington has a long history of supporting the planting and maintenance of trees throughout the City, resulting in receipt of the coveted Tree City USA designation for the past several years.

In 2003, a master plan for the arboretum was developed in conjunction with Thompson Dyke & Associates, landscape design consultant. The master plan was formally adopted by the Beautification Committee in March 2004. On Arbor Day in April 2004, a linear portion of Constitution Trail at the Alton Depot Park was formally dedicated to John English, as the initial phase and focal point for the Arboretum.

John English is a local resident, Master Gardener, tree expert, and plant enthusiast who has devoted his life to the study of trees indigenous to Central Illinois. He grows many varieties on his farm and has gifted hundreds of his trees over the years to the community and McLean County. John is also a member of Friends of the Constitution Trail and a key contributor to the Bloomington Tree Booklet. It is John’s vision and contributions that the Beautification Committee embraces and supports through the creation and dedication of the John English Arboretum.

The Arboretum will eventually stretch from Lincoln Avenue west to Route 9 along Constitution Trail. It also can be expanded in the future with larger parcels of land in the community, either adjacent to or separate from Constitution Trail. Native specimens and other specimen trees not commonly found in Central Illinois will be considered for planting in the Arboretum. In addition, the Arboretum will provide a location for memorial trees and designated Arbor Day trees.