Peacock Enclosure at Munsinger and Clemens Gardens to be Upgraded

(KNSI) – The peacocks at the Munsinger and Clemens Gardens in St. Cloud will be getting a new enclosure thanks to an initiative with the Central Minnesota Community Foundation.

A press release from the CMCF announced sweeping upgrades to the existing peacock display and surrounding facilities. Calling the current enclosure “dilapidated” and the maintenance buildings “inefficient,” the upgrades will replace both.

The open-air peacock pen will be replaced with a living space that has running water, temperature control, and better conditions for the birds. The pen will be open for public viewing throughout the year. A children’s play area featuring a peacock mural will be added. Existing restroom facilities will also be upgraded and expanded.

The plans were designed by JLG Architects. According to its website, the company has been part of several St. Cloud area landmarks, including the expansion of the Herb Brooks National Hockey Center at St. Cloud State University, the River’s Edge Convention Center, and the restoration of First National Bank of St. Cloud, for which they won an award.

Penny White, President of the Friends of the Garden advisory council of the Central Minnesota Community Foundation, said in a statement, “The Munsinger and Clemens Gardens are the jewel of St. Cloud. Improving the peacock enclosure will only enhance the sparkle. This is an opportunity to make an extraordinarily special place for families, children, and visitors to St. Cloud.”

The project will be funded by a public-private partnership with the City of St. Cloud, and fundraising will start immediately. Construction is expected to start in 2023.

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