UPDATE: Thanks to all who voted, the Urban Forestry project proposal received the largest number of votes and has been funded for 2023, along with eight other fantastic projects. We look forward to seeing dozens of trees planted around the city in 2023.
Please vote to plant trees in our community!
The Sustainable Saratoga Urban Forestry Project proposal to plant more street trees is in the running to receive funding through the city’s Participatory Budgeting initiative. Saratoga Springs residents have the opportunity to vote for their top 5 projects, from December 3 – 11.
Vote online or in person at one of three Information Sessions:
- Monday, December 5, 6pm at Saratoga Springs Library, Dutcher Community Room
- Tuesday, December 6 at Saratoga Springs City Council meeting
- Wednesday, December 7, 6pm at Saratoga Springs Recreation Center
The Proposal
Hire contract labor to plant large-growing, native and near-native shade trees on specific high-visibility streets. The additional labor will allow the city to plant a large number of trees in a short amount of time.
Benefits
Planting shade trees along public streets will add beauty and benefits for our entire community and our visitors to enjoy.
Trees provide physical and mental health benefits for humans, and food and shelter for wildlife.
Trees help combat climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide from the air and storing carbon. They cool the city’s environment by reducing heat from buildings, streets, parking areas, and sidewalks. They purify the air we breathe by absorbing pollutants. They reduce water pollution by intercepting rainfall and preventing runoff from carrying pollutants into streams, lakes, and groundwater.
Trees improve neighborhood appeal and attract businesses, shoppers, and homeowners. They shade homes and businesses, reducing energy use and energy bills.
Recommended planting locations
Location 1: Weibel Avenue, between Stone Road and the northern transfer station driveway. Plant approximately 25 large-growing trees.
Location 2: Union Ave Median, between East Avenue and Nelson Avenue. Plant 5 large-growing Trees.
Location 3: The west side of West Avenue, along St. Peter’s Cemetery. Plant 12 large-growing trees.
Location 4: Maple Avenue. Plant 15 large-growing trees starting at the City Center parking garage entrance and along the edge of High Rock Park, ending near Rock Street.
Attend one of three info sessions to learn more about the program and the proposed projects
