CHICAGO ~ Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and city officials gathered in Austin today for a tree-planting ceremony to celebrate the success of the "Our Roots Chicago" program. The initiative, which aims to expand tree planting in the city, has reached a milestone of 68,000 new trees planted throughout Chicago. This accounts for 90% of the overall goal, putting the city on track to meet its target of 75,000 trees planted by 2026.

The multi-departmental effort, led by the Departments of Environment (DOE), Streets and Sanitation (DSS), and Transportation (CDOT), was born out of the City's Climate Action Plan. Its primary focus is to address disparities in tree coverage across different neighborhoods in Chicago and ensure a more equitable distribution of trees.

Mayor Johnson emphasized the importance of a robust tree canopy for public health and fighting climate change. He also acknowledged that there are unacceptable disparities in tree coverage depending on where one lives in the city. "My administration has worked to fill those gaps - growing the canopy in neighborhoods, particularly on the South and West Sides of Chicago, which have too often been overlooked," he stated.

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Chief Sustainability Officer Angela Tovar highlighted how this project aligns with the City's efforts to eliminate disparities in public health, economic stability, and quality of life for underserved communities. She emphasized that through historic investments and strong partnerships, they are creating meaningful impact for future generations while leaving no neighborhood behind.

The Our Roots Chicago project prioritizes planting new trees in historically marginalized communities on the South and West Sides where there is a shortage of trees. This not only helps these communities but also contributes to mitigating the effects of climate change.

Acting CDOT Commissioner Craig Turner expressed his pride in being a partner in this initiative. He stated that trees are an essential part of a vibrant public way as they make corridors more inviting and support healthier, more resilient communities.

Community partners also play a crucial role in advancing and sustaining Chicago's urban tree canopy. These organizations and residents collaborate with the City to inform tree-related programs and policies and ensure accountability to urban forestry goals. The Tree Ambassador program, a joint initiative of the City of Chicago and the Morton Arboretum, and the TreeKeepers program, led by Openlands, provide specialized training for community members to serve as dedicated stewards of trees in their neighborhoods.

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Pastor Reshorna Fitzpatrick of Stone Temple Baptist Church, a member of the Tree Ambassador program, shared her love for trees and how they add beauty and value to their community. She also highlighted the various benefits of trees, including stress relief, storm flooding prevention, and carbon footprint reduction. "Since Our Roots Chicago began in 2022, tree planting has helped us build deeper connections with our neighbors and grow a stronger, greener North Lawndale," she said.

Trees are one of Chicago's most important natural resources as they provide improved air quality, lower carbon emissions, critical habitats for local biodiversity, and help mitigate the effects of climate change. They also bring additional benefits such as healthier communities, lower energy bills, reduced pollution, mitigating urban heat islands, and flood prevention.

DSS Commissioner Cole Stallard expressed his pride in working alongside all partners to ensure a healthier and more sustainable future for Chicago. He stated that this effort has been five years in the making and that they are excited to see the finish line in sight.

Residents who would like a tree planted in front of their home can use the Chi311 app or call 311. With this successful planting season behind them and continued efforts from all departments involved, Chicago is well on its way to achieving its goal of 75,000 new trees by 2026 through the Our Roots Chicago program.

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