People walk in First Hill. Photo: SDOT Blog stats: 500 words | 3-minute read
Seattle is known for its greenery, but not every corner of the city is filled with trees. It was no surprise to learn what our new Street Tree Planning Study revealed: Across four diverse census tracts – Roxhill, South Park, SODO, and Capitol Hill/Olive Way – community members overwhelmingly support the idea of planting more street trees where there are few today.
The study is a pilot project funded by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources Urban and Community Forestry Program to identify locations where new street trees can be planted. We learned about community support and concerns regarding how new trees would be planted and maintained. This work supports the city’s goal to achieve at least 30% tree-canopy coverage equitably distributed by 2037.
Seattle’s tree canopy includes parks, greenbelts, private property, and street trees in the public right-of-way. Street trees make up nearly a quarter of overall tree canopy. Learn about the city’s street trees here.
We’ve planted thousands of trees in recent years and will continue to plant more thanks to the new Seattle Transportation Levy. For the next 8 years, one key Levy commitment is expanding tree species diversity in areas that historically have had less investment in tree planting and care.
The study’s findings help us understand opportunities and challenges in areas where we’ve traditionally struggled to increase the canopy. Understanding places like SODO with heavy industrial uses, Capitol Hill with dense apartment and commercial buildings, and other residential neighborhoods improves our outreach and programs moving forward.
How the study worked
We focused on four census tracts representing diverse land uses, low levels of existing tree canopy, and unique environmental challenges.
Arborists assessed street tree planting opportunities and obstacles in each neighborhood. We reached out to residents, businesses, and community organizations and launched surveys to assess support and perception of street trees.
By focusing on the four different census tracts, we can develop tailored strategies to apply citywide, so all communities benefit from increased street trees.
What we found
We heard people value trees and want more of them in their neighborhood. For example, street trees reduce overheating, minimize air pollution, provide shade, support wildlife, and enhance quality of life.
Each neighborhood faces challenges: space limitations, utility conflicts, and maintenance concerns that limit tree planting opportunities. The study highlighted the need for planning, community engagement, and innovative solutions.
Check out each neighborhood report:
Next steps
The study will help us create a roadmap for increasing Seattle’s tree canopy and creating greener, healthier neighborhoods. We’re committed to implementing the recommendations: prioritizing tree care, finding ways to create more plantable space, and expanding community outreach and education, thanks in part to the Seattle Transportation Levy.
If you’re passionate about trees, you can help! Consider participating in tree planting programs, volunteering for tree care, or advocating for street trees in your neighborhood.
Visit Trees for Neighborhoods for free trees and planting resources, and connect with SDOT’s Urban Forestry team to get involved.
