FAQ
Q: Why is this tree planting happening now? A: The City of Trenton, along with several other organizations, received funding from the NJ Department of Environmental Protection’s Natural Climate Solutions grant program, which funds projects that help to mitigate climate change. The funding is to be used for planting trees in Trenton’s parks and streets, and we will be planting approximately 1,000 trees around the city over the next three years.
Q: Who is planting these trees? A: This tree planting is a joint effort between the City of Trenton, NJ Conservation Foundation, BRS, the NJ Tree Foundation, the Outdoor Equity Alliance, Isles, Equity by Design, and the Watershed Institute. The trees will be planted by staff members from some of these organizations and volunteers like you!
Q: Where are the trees going to be planted? A: This fall, we will be planting on W State Street from Calhoun to Perdicaris. If there is no existing tree pit/grass strip, we will remove concrete to create a new pit. You may notice white marks along the curb - this is approximately where each new tree pit will be.
Q: When is the concrete removal happening? A: We will begin saw-cutting the edges of the pits in the first week of October. After that, the concrete will be broken up and removed, and the pits will be filled with mulch so that they look attractive and do not create a trip hazard. Exact dates will depend on weather, but generally this work will be completed between October 1st-21st.
Q: When is this tree planting happening? A: On Saturday, October 26th, from 9am-12pm, we will be planting along W State Street with volunteers. We will also have food, educational resources, and a fruit tree giveaway happening simultaneously. If you are interested in volunteering or receiving a tree for your yard through the giveaway, please contact Crystal at cwessel@njtreefoundation.org.
Q: How were the planting locations chosen? A: Planting locations were determined based on a variety of factors, primarily a lack of existing tree canopy cover and suitability for trees based on available sidewalk space and absence of overhead wires.
Q: What types of trees are being planted, and how were these species chosen? A: We will be planting Red Maple and Honey Locusts. These are large, native shade trees that have been proven to do well along Trenton’s streets.
Q: What are the benefits of street trees? A: Trees are able to address a number of environmental, social, and even economic issues. Some of our top ones are providing shade so that people can spend more time outdoors, absorbing and filtering out pollutants from the air and water, reducing energy bills by providing shade in summer and insulation in winter, creating oxygen to make breathing easier, reducing flooding by absorbing stormwater, providing habitat and food for pollinators and wildlife, reducing feelings of anger and anxiety, improving property values, and providing beauty. Please don’t hesitate to ask us more about any of these!
Q: Will these trees interfere with overhead utility wires? A: We are not planting any trees underneath overhead wires in order to avoid future problems.
Q: Will these trees cause issues with my sidewalk? A: We are only planting trees in areas with enough space to accommodate the anticipated mature size of the trees. In areas where we will be removing concrete, the new tree pits will be large enough that the tree roots should have enough space to grow without disturbing surrounding concrete. While trees do occasionally grow larger than expected, by planting them correctly and in sufficiently sized tree pits, we hope to minimize future conflicts.
Q: Will these trees cause issues with my sewer/water line? A: Tree roots do not create leaks in sewer lines, but if there is an existing leak in a pipe they may find it and can potentially cause damage. To minimize potential conflicts we avoid planting trees directly on top of sewer/water lines. All trees will be planted a minimum of three feet away from any sewer or water line. Having sufficient soil volume in each tree pit also reduces the risk as the tree is able to access water more easily. Modern pipes are also constructed of materials such as PVC and plastic, and are less susceptible to breakage than older ceramic pipes.
Q: How much maintenance is needed? A: The trees must be watered and mulched for at least two years after planting while they re-establish their roots; this will be completed by a contractor.
Q: What is my responsibility for this tree? A: The trees are being planted on city property in the right of way, so the City of Trenton will be responsible for maintenance, including pruning and removal if it becomes necessary.
Q: Am I allowed to decorate my tree/tree pit? A: Absolutely! Flowers are a great addition to tree pits, as well as small fencing to help protect the trees. You are welcome to put lights and other decorations on the tree as long as you loosen or remove them each year so that the tree doesn’t grow into them. A beautiful and well-maintained tree pit is also less likely to collect litter!
Q: Who can I contact if I have questions? A: info@outdoorequityalliance.org