Rochester Reporter

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 another 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 planting 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 oversees the initiative and 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 urban landscape.

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

City residents are encouraged to participate in the program by requesting a tree be planted in public right-of-way areas by calling 311. Once planted, residents can receive assistance from the City in caring for their tree.