City receives $3 Million grant for tree expansion and beautification

The City of Rochester has been awarded $3 million through the USDA Urban and Community Forestry Inflation Reduction Act to support Mayor Malik D. Evans’ Tree Expansion and Beautification Initiative. The funding will significantly advance the City’s goal to plant an additional 6,000 new trees across Rochester by 2025, focusing on disadvantaged communities and ensuring a more equitable distribution of the urban tree canopy.

The grant will allow the city to plant 4,000 trees over the next two years, with 2,000 trees to be planted in 2024 and 2,000 in 2025. This builds on the 3,200 trees already planted to date, which were funded by the city. By the end of 2025, the city will surpass its initial goal of 6,000 trees, contributing to the health and beautification of neighborhoods citywide.

“I am thrilled to see our vision for a greener, more vibrant Rochester coming to life,” said Mayor Evans. “Trees are not just beautiful; they are vital to the health and well-being of our neighborhoods, our environment and our future. Thanks to this incredible $3 million grant, we are well on our way to planting 6,000 trees across our city by 2025, with a special focus on areas that need them the most. Every tree we plant is a step towards cleaner air, cooler streets and healthier communities.”

The City’s Forestry Division, which oversees the initiative, has identified planting zones that prioritize under-canopied and underserved neighborhoods. The new trees will contribute to ongoing beautification efforts, improve environmental resilience and increase property values while promoting a healthier, greener urban landscape.

Rochester’s Urban Forest Master Plan also plays a critical role in guiding these efforts, ensuring that the city’s trees are managed for long-term sustainability. The grant funding will help achieve the goals outlined in the plan, including promoting biodiversity and mitigating the effects of climate change.

City residents are encouraged to participate in the program by requesting a tree to be planted in the public right-of-way by calling 311. Once the tree is planted, the City will help you care for your tree.