Mayor Domenic J. Sarno, Director for the Department Parks, Buildings, and Recreation Management (PBRM) Tom Ashe, and PBRM’s Forestry Division are excited to announce that the “Greening the Gateway Cities” program is underway for 2025, offering free shade trees to all Springfield residents.
Designed to enhance urban greenery and promote environmental sustainability by offering trees at no charge to residents of Springfield, the initiative aims to cool homes, clean the air, and reduce stormwater runoff, benefiting both the environment and community health and well-being.
This spring, the program is open to residents all Springfield neighborhoods. Eligible homeowners will have the opportunity to meet with a dedicated forester from the Greening the Gateway Cities program. These experts will assist in selecting the most appropriate tree variety for each property, ensuring a good fit for the specific conditions and aesthetics of each yard. A wide variety of tree species are available, guaranteeing that every participant will find an option that complements their property. The selected trees will be planted at no charge by professional nurserymen, with planting continuing through mid-June.
The GGCP, a transformative initiative aimed at revitalizing urban areas across Massachusetts, has showcased Springfield as a shining example of urban greening. Mayor Domenic J. Sarno emphasizes the positive impact the GGCP has had on the environmental health of Springfield neighborhoods, stating, “We are excited to bring even more greenery to Springfield through the expansion of this program. Every neighborhood and every resident now has the opportunity to plant a tree, bringing not only beauty and shade to their own yards but also contributing to a healthier, more vibrant city. These trees will help cool our homes, improve air quality, and strengthen our community’s resilience to climate change. This initiative reflects our continued commitment to making Springfield a greener, more sustainable city -- one street and one neighborhood at a time.”
Springfield City Forester Alex Sherman, speaks to the direct benefits brought by the tree planting initiative to the GGCP neighborhoods, “The Greening the Gateway Cities Program is making a significant impact on Springfield’s urban landscape, enhancing neighborhood pride while addressing critical environmental challenges. By reducing the urban heat island effect and improving air quality, this initiative is contributing to a healthier and more sustainable community. We are pleased to expand this effort, offering new trees to every neighborhood and ensuring that all residents can experience the benefits of a greener city.”
According to Nicholas Bain, GGCP Coordinator for the City of Springfield, “We are thrilled to see the Greening the Gateway Cities Program expanding across Springfield, bringing the benefits of urban greening to every neighborhood. Every Springfield resident deserves the opportunity to be part of the solution in addressing climate change. By taking action locally, we are strengthening our city's resilience and ensuring a healthier, greener future for all.”
Residents interested in getting a free tree planted in their yard can call 3•1•1 or (413) 736-3111 to schedule a visit by team member to choose a tree variety and secure a date for planting.
For more information about the Springfield Greening the Gateway Cities please contact Nicholas Bain, GGCP Program Coordinator, Springfield Parks Department, 200 Trafton Road, Springfield, MA 01108 nbain@springfieldcityhall.com Tel: (413) 750-8560.
About Springfield Greening the Gateway Cities Program (GGCP)
The GGCP is a partnership between the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA), the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) Urban & Community Forestry Program, the Department of Energy Resources (DOER) and the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), along with Massachusetts Gateway Cities and local nonprofit organizations. Funded by the EEA and by DOER’s Alternative Compliance Payment program, the GGCP is administered by the DCR Bureau of Forestry. Through strategic tree planting and sustainable landscaping efforts, the program seeks to create greener, more resilient cities while improving the quality of life for residents.
