This fall, Cleveland Park in Avondale became the epicenter of a record-breaking community effort. More than 200 volunteers joined forces for the largest single-day tree planting event in Cincinnati’s history, adding over 200 trees to Avondale’s urban landscape.
A Greener Future for Neighborhoods That Need It Most
This year’s Let’s Grow Local event was a resounding success, marking a significant milestone in the initiative’s mission to enhance Cincinnati’s tree canopy. Launched in 2019 by MadTree Brewing and supported by the Cincinnati Parks Foundation, Cincinnati Parks and Groundwork Ohio River Valley, Let’s Grow Local focuses on planting trees in neighborhoods identified in the Green Cincinnati Plan as having the greatest need for expanded tree canopies.
This year, we targeted Avondale, one of Cincinnati’s neighborhoods with less than 40% tree canopy, where newly planted trees will provide long-lasting benefits.
“Cleveland Park is the heartbeat of the community,” said Sandra Jones Mitchell, President of the Avondale Community Council. “Adding more trees creates spaces for connection and enjoyment.”
Why Trees Matter: The Impact of Urban Canopy Expansion
The benefits of increasing tree coverage are immense and transformative:
- Improved Air Quality: Trees remove pollutants, ensuring cleaner air for residents.
- Cooling Effects: Tree canopy coverage can lower neighborhood temperatures by up to 10°F, reducing urban heat stress.
- Flood Mitigation: Trees naturally manage stormwater, decreasing flooding and erosion risks.
- Mental Health Boost: Green spaces enhance community well-being, offering havens for connection and relaxation.
Partners in Change
The success of Let’s Grow Local is a testament to the power of partnerships. This year’s event brought together more than 20 organizations, including the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden and Duke Energy. Together, we’ve built a network of change-makers committed to creating a greener Cincinnati.
As a proud partner, the Cincinnati Parks Foundation is honored to contribute to this annual tradition. We continue to champion the expansion of Cincinnati’s green spaces by working with community leaders, organizations and volunteers. This ensures all neighborhoods can enjoy the benefits of more trees and a healthier urban canopy.
Looking Ahead
The Let’s Grow Local initiative is a reminder of what’s possible when communities come together for a shared purpose. With continued efforts like this, we can improve neighborhood wellness and inspire future generations to prioritize environmental stewardship.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated volunteers, partners, and residents who made this milestone possible. Together, we’re working toward a greener, healthier Cincinnati, strengthening our community one tree at a time.
