An update on the Lex Grow Trees program

The urban tree canopy in Lexington as of 2022. Source: City of Lexington.

On Tuesday, the Environmental Quality and Public Works (EQPW) Committee will hear an update on the Lex Grow Trees from Heather Wilson, Urban and Community Forestry Section Manager, and Lauren Gawthrop, Impressions Marketing.

Lex Grow Trees is an initiative that aims to increase the tree canopy in Lexington. It provides funding to different programs such as the Hazardous Street Tree Cost-Share program that offers financial support for homeowners removing and replacing a dangerous tree.

Lex Grow Trees also provides grants for tree growing projects. Over two grant application rounds since November 2024, there were 43 applicants with over $4 million total funds requested, with approximately $887k in funding being awarded to 15 organizations. The grants resulted in more than 1,800 trees being planted across Lexington.

Mayor Gorton stated in her Budget Address that she has allocated $150k in her Proposed Budget to go towards efforts to grow Lexington’s tree canopy. More money will be provided for the Street Tree Pruning Program, as well as the Lex Grow Trees program.

You can view the full presentation slides starting on page three of this packet.