Kingston mayor Steven Noble has announced that the City of Kingston was awarded $50,000 from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Urban and Community Forestry Grant program to be used for citywide tree-planting. With the $50,000 grant and with a 25 percent match from the City of Kingston, tree-planting funds will total $62,500 and be specifically used for street trees. The Tree Commission estimates to plant between 70 and 90 trees with this funding, focusing on neighborhoods that currently lack trees and would benefit from additional shade and streetscape amenities.
The Tree Commission has reviewed the city’s tree inventory to identify locations that are most in need of tree cover. The City of Kingston is taking applications from homeowners and business-owners who would like to request a tree in front of their property, with special consideration to priority areas identified on the map. The Midtown area has been identified as the most highly trafficked area that is underserved for street trees.
Plantings will be in the public right-of-way, with a commitment from property-owners to ensure that the new trees are well-maintained, particularly in the early stages of planting. Species will be chosen by the Tree Commission, who will identify types of trees that will have a positive impact on biodiversity and will be the appropriate size for the planting locations.
“Our community is passionate about trees, as we know they provide shade, beautify our streetscapes and are beneficial for our mental health and general wellbeing,” said Mayor Noble. “We are grateful to the DEC for this grant, which will provide so many trees for our community to enjoy for generations to come.”
“We agree with Mayor Noble: Our urban forest provides numerous benefits for our community,” said Suzanne Cahill, planning director. “It is also important to understand that approved locations will require that the property-owners abutting the planting will be responsible for the continued maintenance of the street tree. This will ensure the sustainability of the overall program and its success.”
The Tree Commission is accepting applications until September 15. City staff and commission members will need to review the sites and verify suitability. Final locations will be chosen by December 2021, with planting expected to take place spring 2022. Applications are available in the Planning Office at City Hall and on the City of Kingston website.
For more information, visit www.kingston-ny.gov/trees or contact the Planning Office at (845) 334-3954 or planning@kingston-ny.gov for an application.
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