What's Happening in Tacoma, WA…

The city of Tacoma is holding its free street program, known as Grit City Trees.

The program is designed so that the tree canopy of Tacoma can be increased equitably while also creating healthy and happy neighborhoods through tree planting in the community. It has been shown that planting more trees in neighborhoods helps to manage stormwater runoff, slow traffic flow, keep communities cool during hot days, and provide benefits of mental health.

The Grit City Trees program was started in 2016 and has planted 1,867 trees in the city. The city has decided to continue the program this year to increase the planting of trees in Priority Planting Areas in the city. Groups of people in a neighborhood are encouraged to work together to apply to Grit City Trees. Individuals can also apply for the program. Those who are approved will receive free trees and other materials such as tree ties, tree stakes, potting soil, and watering devices.

Poster printing can be used throughout a city to promote such special programs.

The trees should be planted in right-of-way areas and cannot be resold. Those who are interested in participating in this program can find the application on the city’s website. Applications from Priority Planting Areas are prioritized but all property owners in the city with opportunities to plant in a tight-of-way area are encouraged to apply.

Applications are due Monday September 2.