Bayside Tree Planting Project

For Phase I of the project, Sebago compiled an existing tree and sidewalk infrastructure inventory from field observations and desktop information for the Bayside neighborhoods. This data was used in a suitability analysis to identify areas with a high need for canopy and suitable infrastructure for tree planting with the goal of identifying 80 sites. Phase I of the project was funded through the American Rescue Plan Act. Results from the suitability analysis were used to secure a second grant through the Community Development Block Grant program to fund a Phase II tree planting surge. After final site selection, Sebago developed construction documentation for a total of 152 planting sites in the Bayside neighborhoods. Tree planting began in spring of 2024.

The increased tree canopy in the Bayside neighborhoods will improve air quality, combat urban heating, and promote sense of place in a historically industrialized and marginalized community.