Princeton Named 2024 Tree City USA For 28th Year In A Row

PRINCETON, NJ — For the 28th year in a row, Princeton was named a 2024 Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation in honor of its commitment to effective forest management.

The Tree City USA program is sponsored by the Arbor Day Foundation in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters.

"Trees are vital natural assets and ecological resources in our community," said Michelle Pirone Lambros, Councilmember and Shade Tree Commission Liaison. "They help to improve the visual appeal of our neighborhoods, increase property values, reduce home cooling costs, remove air pollutants, sequester carbon, and provide wildlife habitat, among many other essential benefits to our town."

"Princeton continues to exceed the Tree City USA requirements in our commitment to Princeton’s forest. We have a Certified Arborist and Licensed Tree Expert on-staff who manages a rigorous shade tree ordinance and spring and fall tree planting projects. He also priorities educational outreach opportunities including Arbor Day events at the elementary schools and Community Night Out," said Deanna Stockton, Deputy Administrator.

"I take caring for Princeton’s tree canopy very seriously. Using the knowledge I gained while working for the New York City Parks Department and my formal education and training as an arborist, I aim to make Princeton’s streets as safe and as aesthetically pleasing as possible," said Municipal Arborist Taylor Sapudar. "Princeton is a great community that has a passion for trees. We are fortunate to have the support of our elected officials and the necessary staff and resources to care for them the best we can."

In celebration of Arbor Day and Princeton being named a 2024 Tree City, the Shade Tree Commission will be giving out free tree saplings at Porchfest in Hinds Plaza on Sunday, April 27 from noon to 6 p.m.

"Everyone benefits when elected officials, volunteers and committed citizens in communities like Princeton make smart investments in urban forests," said Dan Lambe, chief executive of the Arbor Day Foundation. "Trees bring shade to our homes and beauty to our neighborhoods, along with numerous economic, social and environmental benefits."

More information on the program is available at arborday.org/TreeCityUSA.

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