Public Works Forestry Division Awarded Grant To Boost Urban Tree Canopy

The City of Peoria Department of Public Works Forestry Division was awarded a $50,000 subgrant by The Morton Arboretum's Chicago Region Trees Initiative (CRTI) to improve its community tree canopy.

The competitive subgrant is among 17 provided to government entities through Inflation Reduction Act funding to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, administered by CRTI.

The four-year grants, which do not require matching funds, are available for communities that meet the federal requirements as disadvantaged. The funding can be used for projects that increase tree canopy, improve forest health, and create or enhance community forestry programs.

"As stewards of the City's urban forestry and green spaces, the Public Works Forestry Division is deeply committed to contributing to the Morton Arboretum's vision of fostering greener and healthier communities where people and trees thrive together," Forestry Program Supervisor Shawn Johnson said. "This grant will enhance the City's tangible impact on its dedication to sustainability and community well-being through increased tree plantings throughout Peoria."

With the grant, the Forestry Division plans to introduce a wide variety of trees in areas of the City where green spaces are scarce or limited. The grant will fund 117 trees to be planted in coordination with schools, community centers, and residents. These coordinated tree plantings will help foster awareness of the numerous benefits of urban forestry.

"Improving the distribution of trees and green spaces directly impacts the health and economic outcomes for communities," said CRTI Director Zach Wirtz. "Projects like this improve quality of life and boost the urban tree canopy's resilience to threats posed by climate change, pests and diseases."

Funding support for this project was provided by the Inflation Reduction Act through the Urban and Community Forestry Programs of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and the USDA Forest Service Eastern Region. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.