Lewis Ginter union pushes pay fight before expansion debut

State of play: Lewis Ginter workers, who voted in 2024 to unionize, say negotiations for their first contract have stretched on for more than a year and are now held up over wage increases.

• That's according to a statement by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, or IAM Union, which represents roughly 65 horticulturists, gardeners, and guest and event services staffers at the Henrico County center.
• Their average $17.52-an-hour wage makes it difficult for the workers to make ends meet and support their families, the union says.
• The union is stepping up its campaign for a contract ahead of Lewis Ginter's opening of its new conservatory and expanded gardens.

Zoom in: Dubbed "Thrive," the $31 million expansion at Lewis Ginter will add 7.5 acres of new gardens, plus a conservatory that's double the size of the existing one.

• The project is slated to open May 23.
• It's separate from the 6.2 acres of land from a neighboring church that Lewis Ginter agreed to purchase in 2022 for around $1.9 million, with Henrico County contributing $750,000.

What they're saying: "We would love to see this wrapped up ... so workers can commemorate the expansion opening with the security of their improved wages and working conditions," said IAM Union organizer Bridget Fitzgerald in a statement.

The other side: Lewis Ginter spokesperson Mary Heather Parch said in a statement to Axios that the botanical garden continues to negotiate in good faith.

• She noted that staffers have "received four pay raises in five years, promotions and additional benefits."