The Portland City Council has approved an updated Urban Forest Plan, led by Portland Parks & Recreation, aimed at expanding and managing the city's tree canopy more equitably, with a focus on neighborhoods with limited green coverage. The plan includes lower tree care costs for residents, city-maintained street trees, and support for private property tree maintenance, according to the City of Portland.
Deputy City Administrator Priya Dhanapal said, "We are ready to work with our partners and the community to make Portland a greener, healthier, and more resilient city." Interim Director Sonia Schmanski noted the council's commitment to launching tree planting programs, updating codes, and designing urban spaces where trees can thrive alongside city development, as reported by the City of Portland.
The updated Urban Forest Plan includes timelines, strategies, and steps for partners, and notes the need to revise the City's Tree Code, Title 11. City Forester Jenn Cairo said, "The revised Urban Forest Plan reflects our commitment to a healthier, more equitable Portland." Funding comes from the General Fund, Parks Levy, and the Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund, which plans to plant at least 15,000 new trees, reduce maintenance costs, and support workforce training. The plan was developed with community input from surveys, open houses, and focus groups, including feedback from historically underserved communities during a 50-day public comment period, as stated by the City of Portland.
