The state has committed $5 million toward the development of the Botanical Garden of Western Pennsylvania, a state official said yesterday during a groundbreaking at the site in Settler's Cabin Park in Collier and North Fayette.

"The transformation of this former mining site into acres of stunning gardens will attract thousands of visitors to the Pittsburgh region," said Dennis Yablonsky, secretary of the Department of Community and Economic Development.

The Botanical Garden of Western Pennsylvania, formerly known as the Horticultural Society of Western Pennsylvania, will oversee the development, construction and operation of the 452-acre project.