Mayor Michelle Wu and Senator Ed Markey celebrate Boston's receipt of an $11.4 million grant from the U.S. Forest Service's Urban and Community Forestry Grant. This funding will support workforce development, improve tree care and accessibility, and expand Boston's Tree Alliance. With a focus on equity and sustainability, this grant will enhance the city's tree canopy, create green jobs, and improve the livability of Boston's neighborhoods.
Improving Tree Care and Accessibility
Learn how Boston plans to enhance tree care and accessibility in the city.
Boston recognizes the importance of tree coverage in creating cool, green, and healthy spaces for residents to thrive. With the $11.4 million grant, the city aims to proactively maintain the existing tree canopy and find innovative ways to increase tree coverage while ensuring accessible walking surfaces for those with visual and mobility limitations.
The City of Boston will implement strategies such as using flexible and porous paving materials to improve tree canopy and provide accessible sidewalks. Regular meetings with accessibility advocates will be held to gather feedback and improve procedures for future work.
Supporting Workforce Development Opportunities
Discover how Boston plans to support workforce development in urban and community forestry.
As part of Boston's commitment to equitable growth, the city released the Urban Forest Plan and the Heat Resilience Solutions Plan in 2022. This funding will facilitate three approaches to build inclusivity and increase access to trees and their benefits in historically marginalized communities.
Building Inclusive Streets:
Boston aims to make streets accessible and support the growth of urban street trees. This initiative will create job opportunities and promote workforce development for young people from environmental justice communities.
PowerCorps Boston:
PowerCorps Boston, an 'earn and learn' program, will receive funding to expand its training in climate resilience and the green industry. This program provides hands-on training and prepares young adults for living-wage careers in urban and community forestry.
Community Engagement:
The grant will also foster community engagement through tree planting and care. Residents and community-based organizations will be involved in the process, promoting a sense of ownership and stewardship.
Expanding Boston's Tree Alliance
Learn about the Tree Alliance Program and its expansion in Boston.
With over 60% of Boston's trees privately owned, the City is working with the community to expand the urban forest. The Community Tree Alliance Program, launched in May, focuses on under-canopied neighborhoods and aims to support the growth and care of the urban forest on private lands.
The new federal funding will allow for increased planting and maintenance, expanded public education and outreach programs, and the addition of new staff positions to bolster the program's capacity.
Boston's urban forest plays a critical role in balancing the impacts of urbanization with green infrastructure. This funding will help address the disparities in tree canopy coverage across neighborhoods, particularly in environmental justice communities.
Conclusion
The $11.4 million grant from the U.S. Forest Service's Urban and Community Forestry Grant is a significant boost for Boston's efforts to enhance tree care, accessibility, and workforce development. With a focus on equity and sustainability, this funding will help improve the city's tree canopy, create green jobs, and make Boston's neighborhoods more livable.
By proactively maintaining the existing tree canopy, implementing innovative strategies for accessibility, and expanding programs like PowerCorps Boston and the Community Tree Alliance, Boston is taking important steps towards building a more inclusive and resilient urban forest.
Through this grant, Boston is demonstrating its commitment to environmental justice, community engagement, and the well-being of its residents. The city's efforts to increase tree coverage and create green spaces will contribute to a healthier and more sustainable future for all.