Tree-planting project to bring more shade to Portland’s Lents neighborhood
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Construction could disrupt traffic along some portions of Southeast Duke Street as agencies work to revitalize Portland’s tree canopy.
Although Portland Parks and Recreation often plant trees in neighborhoods that are lacking, a 2023 report showed that tree coverage has continued to decrease across the city.
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The Portland Bureau of Transportation reported that some areas have 70% tree coverage, while others have about 5%. The Lents neighborhood, in particular, holds few street trees and lacks the space to plant more — hence why it is the focus of the Trees in the Curb Zone Pilot Project.
The project recently received a $500,000 grant from the Bureau of Environmental Services’ Percent for Green program. The funding will cover the new street trees, along with yard trees for some properties in the area.
Officials hope the project will bring more shade and lower temperatures to the city, while improving the habitat for wildlife and reducing the effects of climate change.
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“The dangerous heat waves in recent years have highlighted many of the cooling benefits of trees,” PBOT said. “Trees also help improve mental and physical health, safety, air quality, biodiversity, and stormwater management.”
For the first phase of the pilot project, construction crews will add more planting space to 15 spots along Southeast Duke Street from Southeast 82nd Avenue to Southeast 94th Avenue. This phase is expected to last through August.
PP&R’s Urban Forestry department will plant the trees later this fall or winter. The department is also responsible for maintenance.
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“I’m pleased that our city bureaus are working together on this pilot project and delivering the benefits of trees to an area of Portland that is particularly vulnerable to our changing climate,” BES Director Dawn Uchiyama said. “When we add natural infrastructure to urban spaces we get multiple benefits.”
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