EXTON, PA — Paul B. Redman, President and CEO of Longwood Gardens, was officially inducted into the Chester County Hall of Fame in a ceremony hosted by the Chester County Economic Development Council (CCEDC) on Wednesday night. The event, attended by over 400 business and community leaders, took place for the first time at Longwood Gardens, following the largest expansion project in the garden’s modern history.
“Paul has executed an amazing transformation that has come to fruition to the benefit of the local community as well as national and international visitors,” said CCEDC CEO Gary Smith. Redman, who has led Longwood Gardens since 2006, has overseen $500 million in extensive infrastructure improvements. This includes the $250 million “Longwood Reimagined” initiative, which has revitalized key areas of the garden, such as the new West Conservatory and Cascade Garden, and added significant features like the revamped 1906 restaurant.
Under Redman’s leadership, Longwood Gardens has seen annual visitors double to nearly 1.6 million, and membership support has grown from 17,000 to 83,000 households. Additionally, the garden acquired the 505-acre Granogue property in New Castle County, further enhancing its regional footprint.
“Early on, I was connected to my passion for horticulture without realizing it could be a career,” said Redman during the ceremony. He highlighted the partnership between Longwood Gardens and the Chester County community, stating, “The value they bring to the table helped ensure that the majority of the work contracted for this project stayed within Chester County, which is a key to our ongoing success.”
Redman emphasized collaboration as critical to the region’s prosperity, calling it a shared effort among residents, business owners, officials, and visitors. “We knew our community needed this investment and that it would have a long-term return,” he added.
Regarding his induction into the Hall of Fame, Redman expressed genuine surprise and humility. “It’s always very humbling to be recognized, and it’s rarely about me. It’s about Longwood, and from that perspective, it’s even more special.”
The improvements spearheaded by Redman have elevated Longwood Gardens as an internationally renowned destination for both horticultural enthusiasts and tourists. The garden’s Main Fountain Garden refurbishment and reimagined visitor spaces have cemented its role as a significant contributor to Chester County’s economy and cultural identity.
Redman’s career achievements extend beyond Longwood. He is a graduate of Oklahoma State University and has previously led at Franklin Park Conservatory, where he earned the Ann Islay Wolfe Award. Over the years, he has received numerous accolades, including the 2018 National Garden Clubs Award of Excellence and the 2015 American Horticultural Society’s Professional Award.
The Chester County Hall of Fame recognizes individuals who have profoundly impacted the region’s business and economic landscape. Past inductees include Christopher Fiorentino (2024), Patti Brennan (2023), and the founders of Victory Brewing Company (2020). Redman’s induction underscores the significance of his leadership at Longwood Gardens and its beneficial ripple effects for the county and beyond.
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