Meijer Japanese garden moves ahead

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (AP) - The Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park plans to start construction in mid-July on a $22 million Japanese garden on its West Michigan grounds.

The Grand Rapids cultural attraction announced Thursday it exceeded its fundraising goals for "The Richard and Helen DeVos Japanese Garden," which was announced in February. It's named in recognition of Amway co-founder Richard DeVos Sr. and his wife, Helen, who are helping fund the project.

The 8 1/2-acre garden is being designed by Japanese landscape architect Hoichi Kurisu, who will oversee work in person. Construction initially had been expected to start in early 2013.

A fall boulder-setting ceremony is planned. The garden likely will open in 2015. Zen-style, moss and bonsai gardens are planned, as well as bridges, waterfalls and a tea house.