Mercer Botanic Gardens, which reopened in March after completing renovations due to Hurricane Harvey-related flooding, has dedicated its first new section in five years.

The gardens, located at 22306 Aldine Westfield Road, Humble, are part of the Harris County Precinct 4 parks system, and fundraising for the park's future development is coordinated by the nonprofit organization The Mercer Society.

The Shakespeare Garden replaces an underused lawn area at the facility, according to officials. Flowers and plants at the site include antique roses and boxwoods as well as a decorative water fountain and bust of William Shakespeare. The overall effect resembles a garden of the English Renaissance, and it was inspired by the book "Shakespeare's Flowers" by Jessica Kerr, according to a news release.

The cost of the garden, not including labor, was $23,000, Precinct 4 Operations coordinator Jeff Heilers said.

The project came into being with the help of park ranger Al Friedl, county officials said.

“Al Friedl came to me with this idea after noticing the Greater Houston area lacked a Shakespeare garden," said Mercer interim Director Jim Nutter. "He thought the garden would not only be visually stunning, but may also inspire a love of Shakespeare in a new generation. The new garden will be perfect for reading, visiting with friends and relaxing.”

For more information about the park and gardens, call 713-274-4160 or visit www.hcp4.net/community/parks/mercer.