Forest Trees - Participatory Budgeting Update

Noticed any new trees in the neighborhood? One of our Participatory Budgeting 2025 winners was funding for landscaping along Foster between Broadway and Marine. 48th Ward Neighborhood Services Manager Conor and Communications Manager Audrey recently surveyed the project area with City Forester Jeff Brink to determine next steps. We're thrilled to report that the team identified both sites for new trees and dead/dying trees in need of replacement, not just on Foster but also along other major 48th Ward streets including Broadway, Lawrence, Sheridan, Clark, and Devon.

Many potential new tree sites were identified along Broadway, Devon, and Lawrence. While sidewalk width and proximity to bus stations, utlities, and other trees prevents new planting along much of the original Foster project area, neighbors should still notice a difference as existing dead trees are replaced, bolstering the overall tree canopy in that area. Thank you to the Chicago Department of Transporation (CDOT) forestry team for going above and beyond for our ward and to the many neighbors who advocated for this project. 

Remember! New trees, especially those planted in Spring and Summer, need our help when they're young! While the city takes care of long term maintenance and trimming, they don't regularly water young trees. Newly-planted trees require 10-15 gallons of water a week until they become self-sufficient which, depending on rainfall, they may not be getting on their own. If you notice a new tree pop up near you, take some time to give it a drink!

Our team surveyed major streets, but did you know that you can request a tree on a residential parkway, free of charge? Use this link to get start through 311.