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ROCKFORD – Dismantling the Sinnissippi Park greenhouses began Tuesday as the Rockford Park makes way for the new Nicholas Conservatory. 

The greenhouses, a fixture since they were built in the 1920’s, and Park District lagoon were closed last Thursday in preparation for groundbreaking next week on the conservatory. The conservator, which Park District officials say will be the third-largest in the state, is scheduled to open in fall 2010. 

Phase 1 construction is estimated to cost $9.1 million and includes the main building plants and most of the amenities associated with the conservatory. All but $50,000, which came from a state grant, was raised privately. More than 950 people donated $9.05 million to the project in amounts ranging from $10 to millions of dollars. There were 13 people who made gifts of more than $100,000 to the project.

The conservatory is a 21,000 square-foot building. The main space is 122 feet long, 93 feet wide, and 52 feet tall at its tallest point. 

Contractors Ringland-Johnson won the $7.1 million building contract this month. The remaining $2 million for Phase 1 will cover administrative expenses and other costs, such as phone lines and building security.