Downtown Inc and Partners Plant First 50 of 100 Trees Funded by Tree Pennsylvania Grant

 Downtown Inc, in partnership with the City of York’s Parks & Recreation Department, is proud to announce the successful planting of the first 50 trees funded by a grant from Tree Pennsylvania, a statewide nonprofit organization that works in collaboration with the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources to support tree planting in urban communities.
 
The initiative began with the planting of trees this April at key green spaces throughout York City, including Farquhar Park, Veterans Memorial Park, and areas along the York County Heritage Rail Trail in Downtown York. The species planted—sugar maples, Kentucky coffee trees, and pin oaks—were carefully selected for their native qualities and suitability to York’s urban climate.
 
“This project is a significant step forward in our shared commitment to environmental stewardship and community beautification,” said Sarah O’Brien, Director of Downtown Inc. “We are grateful for the support of Tree Pennsylvania and all of our local partners who made the first phase of planting a success.”
 
The plantings were led by the City Arborist and supported by the Penn State Master Watershed Stewards Program and Skyler Yost, who emphasized the environmental value of urban tree planting.
 
“The urban tree canopy is so important to the quality of life for residents of York City because it lessens urban heat island effects and helps reduce stormwater runoff, among many other benefits,” said Yost. “I am particularly proud of the partnership we have been able to build with Downtown Inc, the Master Watershed Stewards, and the City of York to make this project happen.”
 
The second phase of the project will take place this fall, when an additional 50 trees will be planted at more locations throughout Downtown York, continuing the mission of expanding York’s urban tree canopy and improving the city’s natural environment.