Improving our tree canopy is a major project of Northwest Neighborhoods, and our team has secured $145,000 since 2020 for planning, planting, and maintenance. By the end of 2023, we will have planted 214 new trees.
"Tree canopy coverage in both Cudell and Detroit Shoreway is well below the citywide goal of 30%," said Phil Kidd, NWN Special Projects Manager. "That goal is so important because trees help absorb stormwater, keep homes cooler, and mitigate climate change."
Tree plantings are complete along West 65th Street, Lake Avenue, and the area of West 85th & Detroit. Upcoming locations include West 57th, West 58th, Franklin Boulevard, Lake Park, and some western areas of Cudell.
The Ward 15 Tree Canopy Steering Committee, convened by Councilmember Jenny Spencer, has provided guidance for planting locations, including places where trees were lost to construction. Maintenance is provided by Neighborly Tree Care, an independent business created by resident Julia Van Wagenen. Program funders include Cuyahoga County, Cleveland Tree Coalition, Western Reserve Land Conservancy, and Dominion Energy Charitable Foundation, with additional contributions from the City of Cleveland.