The City of Phoenix is planting approximately 200 24" box trees for grant recipients living in a Westwood neighborhood on Saturday, March 2, marking it as the biggest City-sponsored neighborhood tree planting event of the season.

“Planting trees across Phoenix not only enhances the beauty of our neighborhoods but also puts in motion our strategic vision for urban forestry. These trees represent our commitment to shade equity and climate resilience, ensuring that every resident enjoys the benefits of a greener, cooler, and more inviting environment," said Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego.

Last fall, the Office of Heat Response and Mitigation launched its Community Canopy grant program which offers free trees and tree planting support for residents and neighborhoods in Qualified Census Tracts (QCTs).

"I am incredibly proud to represent such a vibrant and engaged community," Councilwoman Laura Pastor said. “It brings me great joy to see so many of my constituents taking advantage of the Community Canopy grant program, as it not only beautifies our neighborhoods but also has numerous environmental benefits."

Trees for the tree planting are being supplied by Treeland Nurseries and contractor West Coast Arborists will plant trees for grant recipients. In addition, each resident will receive a supply bag equipped with an irrigation timer, a moisture meter, a 100-foot hose, two t-shirts as well as information on their trees and how to care for them.

“The goal of these tree plantings is to provide more shade to homes in Phoenix neighborhoods as well as bring communities together. A lot of these residents are meeting their neighbors for the first time," says Urban Tree Project Manager Lora Martens. “These tree plantings in front line communities, are truly improving the tree equity gap in our city."

The grant program is funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and applications for the Community Canopy grant program are still being accepted. Residents interested in getting trees planted in their neighborhood can submit their application online at Phoenix.gov/heat. All projects must be completed by Dec. 31.

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