Pawtucket And Central Falls To Get More Urban Trees

PAWTUCKET, RI — Groundwork Rhode Island will soon be working with people in Pawtucket and Central Falls to plant dozens of trees in urban neighborhoods, targeting areas that suffer from hot summer temperatures due to a lack of leafy shade.

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The effort is funded by a $100,000 Tree Planting for Climate Resilience and Human Health grant awarded through the non-profit American Forests. The national organization is currently involved in an effort to build "tree equity." The idea is that all people, regardless of their zip code, should be able to enjoy the economic, public health, and climate mitigation benefits of having trees in their neighborhoods.

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The grant was awarded to the Pawtucket Central Falls Health Equity Zone, ecoRI reports.In Pawtucket and Central Falls, neighborhoods with the hottest temperatures, the least number of trees, and other vulnerabilities — included lots of pavement — will be targeted.

American Forests will use a "tree equity score analyzer" to identify areas most in need of trees. Trees will be planted in neighborhoods that have low tree equity scores.

Groundwork Rhode Island is looking to identify 140 locations to plant trees this spring and fall. Residents, business owners, and school personnel are encouraged to contact Leandro Castro at kcastro@groundworkri.org if they are interested in having trees on their property. Interested parties can also sign up by clicking here.