Greenwich Receives State Funds To Enhance Tree Canopy In This Neighborhood

GREENWICH, CT — The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (CT-DEEP) on Tuesday officially announced over $950,000 in Urban & Community Forestry Trees for Communities grants were awarded to support nine projects across Connecticut municipalities and nonprofits, including in Greenwich.

The grant program supports urban forestry projects that increase tree cover and contribute to urban forestry objectives in low-canopy communities, according to an announcement from CT-DEEP.

Funded projects will conduct activities such as tree planting and maintenance, urban wood utilization, community outreach, and workforce development.

Greenwich will receive $49,536 for the Byram Branches initiative.

"The Byram neighborhood of Greenwich is recognized by both state and federal sources as an environmental justice community. This community-driven urban forestry initiative will plant 100 native trees on public and private properties in Byram, with additional in-kind support from the town to expand planting across the neighborhood," CT-DEEP said in its announcement. "Led by the Town of Greenwich, the project reduces heat and flood risk, boosts biodiversity, and builds environmental equity through education, engagement, and long-term stewardship."

Funding for the Urban and Community Forestry Trees for Communities Grant Program, and the Resilient Forestry Practices Grant Program was made possible through the Inflation Reduction Act.

"These grants invest in communities across Connecticut — from our urban neighborhoods to our rural towns — by expanding tree canopy where it’s needed most," said CT-DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes in an announcement. "In addition to advancing Governor Lamont’s goal of increasing tree cover by 5 percent in environmental justice communities, this funding helps address the threats of climate change by mitigating heat and pollution, managing stormwater runoff, and improving health and quality of life for residents."

The Greenwich Board of Selectmen last November authorized a resolution to accept the grant money.

"As part of the program, we'll be doing public outreach and education, and we will also be working with Parks and Recreation for actually installing the trees," Greenwich Director of Environmental Affairs Beth Evans told the selectmen during the Nov. 14, 2025, meeting. "Not only do people get trees, but they get them installed in appropriate places at the appropriate time of year. It's a win-win, and I am delighted we were selected."

You can learn more about other beneficiaries of the grant money here.