Boston: Thinking Above the Box

~ As the Urban Forestry Division of Boston discusses neighborhoods in need of more tree canopy, Chinatown consistently tops the list. Despite efforts from residents and activists to identify locations for new trees, the results have been disappointing. The neighborhood's crowded sidewalks and complex underground infrastructure make it a difficult place to plant trees.

However, determined to bring more greenery to Chinatown, the City got creative. Over a year ago, the Mayor's Office of New Urban Mechanics proposed using above-ground planters as a potential solution. The Urban Forestry Division team saw this as an opportunity to further their goals outlined in the Urban Forest Plan.

After securing funding and evaluating suitable planters for the neighborhood's sidewalks, the Office of Climate Resilience stepped in to support the project as part of their efforts to combat excessive heat events in Chinatown. The planters arrived at the end of summer, but due to weather conditions, the Division waited until mid-fall to begin planting.

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As residents and pedestrians passed by, they were pleasantly surprised by the new installations and many smiles were shared. Four planters were installed on Harrison Avenue between Kneeland Street and Beach Street, each containing a Serviceberry tree. The Urban Forestry Division will continue to water and maintain these trees as they monitor their progress through this pilot program.

The community can look forward to these trees blooming with white blossoms come springtime, marking what is hoped to be the first of many growing seasons where residents and visitors can enjoy their beauty and shade. Despite ongoing challenges in planting trees in Chinatown, this innovative approach has shown promise in bringing more greenery to this bustling neighborhood.

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