Mayor Brandon Johnson, along with officials from the Departments of Environment (DOE), Streets and Sanitation (DSS), and Transportation (CDOT), marked a milestone in Chicago’s “Our Roots Chicago” tree-planting initiative. At a ceremony in Austin, city leaders announced that 68,000 new trees have been planted throughout Chicago, representing 90% of the program’s goal to plant 75,000 trees by 2026.
The Our Roots Chicago initiative is part of the city’s Climate Action Plan and focuses on expanding tree coverage in neighborhoods with historically low canopy cover. The program aims to address disparities in tree distribution, particularly on the South and West Sides.
“A robust tree canopy is essential to public health and the fight against climate change, however, there are unacceptable disparities in tree coverage depending on where you are in the city,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson. “My administration has worked to fill those gaps—growing the canopy in neighborhoods, particularly on the South and West Sides of Chicago, which have too often been overlooked. I’m proud of our collective work, coming together to take bold action to create more equitable, healthy, and sustainable environments in communities across our city.”
The project prioritizes planting in areas most affected by environmental inequities. Chief Sustainability Officer Angela Tovar stated: “This project is a vital component of the Climate Action Plan and our efforts to eliminate disparities in public health, economic stability and quality of life for underserved communities. Through historic investments and strong partnerships, we are creating meaningful impact for future generations while leaving no neighborhood behind.”
Tree planting involves coordination between DSS’s Bureau of Forestry—which plants trees along parkways—and CDOT—which handles boulevards, medians, and arterial streets. Acting CDOT Commissioner Craig Turner commented: “Trees are a fundamental part of a vibrant public way. They make our corridors more inviting, and support healthier, more resilient communities. CDOT is proud to be a partner in the Our Roots initiative, helping grow Chicago’s tree canopy in the areas that need it most.”
Community organizations play an important role through programs like Tree Ambassador—a partnership between the City of Chicago and Morton Arboretum—and TreeKeepers led by Openlands. These programs train residents as stewards for local trees.
Pastor Reshorna Fitzpatrick from Stone Temple Baptist Church shared her perspective as a Tree Ambassador: “I love trees because they add beauty and so much value to our community. Trees are stress relievers, storm flooding preventers and carbon footprint reducers. Since Our Roots Chicago began in 2022, tree planting has helped us build deeper connections with our neighbors and grow a stronger, greener North Lawndale.”
City officials emphasized that trees contribute to improved air quality, reduced carbon emissions, enhanced biodiversity habitats, lower energy bills for residents due to shade effects during summer months, pollution reduction efforts within urban settings as well as mitigation against urban heat islands and flood risks.
“This effort is five years in the making, and we are excited that the finish line is in sight,” said DSS Commissioner Cole Stallard. “We are proud to work alongside all our partners to ensure a healthier and more sustainable future for Chicago.”
Residents interested in having a tree planted near their home can request one via the Chi311 app or by calling 311.