Mayor Ras J. Baraka and Chief Sustainability Officer Nicole Hewitt-Cabral launched the “Rooted in Newark”Tree Canopy Initiative today, on Earth Day, at Sussex Park located at 155 Central. At least 400 new street trees will be planted across all five wards ofthe city this Spring. Seventy new trees will be planted on Central Avenue inthe coming months in addition to the eight alreadynear the park.

This initiative, championed by Mayor Baraka, and led by Chief Sustainability OfficerHewitt-Cabral, and Tree Superintendent Ryan Metz, will result in a minimum of 5,000 trees planted over the next 10 years, creating a healthier and more sustainable Newark for future generations.

This is the first time the City ofNewark has had a Tree Superintendent who is responsible for overseeing the City’s tree planting effort.

“This project is about more than just planting trees—it’s about planting hope, health, and a brighter future for our city. Through ‘Rooted in Newark,’ we are committing to planting 5,000 trees over the next 10 years to create cooler, greener, and healthier neighborhoods. Future generations of Newarkers will benefit from the shade, beauty, and cleaner air that these trees will provide,” Mayor Baraka said.

As partof this initiative, at least 500 trees will be planted in 2025 alone—coveringall five wards. Rooted in Newark initiates a new concentrated focus on treeplanting as part of Newark’s long-term commitment to urban greening, environmental sustainability, and climate resilience.

Under the initiative, Newark residents are encouraged to request trees to be planted on their streets. This can be done by using SeeClick Fix. By engaging residents in the process, the City aims to foster a deeper sense of community pride and environmental stewardship.

“We want every resident to be a part of this movement. If you want a tree in front of your home, we will make it happen,” added Mayor Baraka.

For the first time in Newark’s history, the City will establish an official City ofNewark Tree Manual, setting planting and maintenance standards to ensure thattrees are properly cared for and thrive for decades.

“For the first time in over a decade, the City of Newark is taking the lead in growing and caring for our urban forest — a step that directly impacts public health, climate resilience, and quality of life for all Newarkers,” said Ms. Hewitt-Cabral. “Rooted in Newark is more than a tree initiative; it’s a citywide commitment to our children, our neighborhoods,and our shared future. This is about legacy — what we’re building and what we’re leaving behind. It’s a joint effort powered by residents, nonprofits, and Newark institutions that have long been rooted in and invested in this community. We’re hopeful, we’re united, and we’re taking action.”

"The New Jersey Forest Service's Urban and Community Forestry Program is proud to partner with and support the City of Newark intheir tree planting initiative," said Brian McDonald, Urban and Community Forestry Coordinator for the New Jersey Forest Service. "Newark continuesto set a strong example as a statewide leader in urban forestry, and we’rethrilled to see this project take root."

At the event, the City also announced it is creating a Shade Tree Committee, which will provide recommendations to the City on tree planting and care, and consist of members within the professional field from every ward who are engaged in the environmental concerns of Newark.

Their duties will be to:

·      Plan reviews for tree-planting, following up on tree protection, and documenting any lack of protection at construction sites.

·      Review permits for tree removal, planting, and pruning, making recommendations for the Tree Superintendent.

·      Advise on sidewalk repair around trees, liaising with residents and coordinating root pruning with the City tree superintendent.

·      Organize volunteer planting events, by coordinating with the Office of Sustainability and partnering community organizations.

·      Monitor tree pruning managementby utility companies.

·      Inspect tree work for compliance with standards and procedures.

·      Check newly-planted trees for planting depth, stakes, and ties and document ongoing maintenance.

The selected tree species have been chosen for their resilience and adaptability our urban environment, ensuring that they will thrive for decades to come. The planting is underway, with priority given to areas that have historically lacked green spaces.

“Planting trees with my neighbors and the City was something special. We came together, got to work, and now our block feels different — cooler, greener, and full of life,” said Newark Resident Dr. Femi Adegbonmire. “It brought people out,got us connecting in a real way. It’s more than just planting trees — it’s about building community. This is what Newark looks like when we work together.”

“As the advisor for our school’s Green Thumb Club, I see what an important opportunity this initiative is for our students,” said Weequahic High School teacher Hashim Bennett.“They are learning the importance of nutrition, healthy lifestyles and shared green spaces for our collective community. Together, we share knowledge and buildskills that empower us as stewards of our environment, which can be applied to future careers and the betterment of our quality of life.”

The Rooted in Newark initiative is designed to deliver multiple benefits to thecity, including:

• Improving air quality by filtering pollutants.
• Lowering temperatures and reducing the urban heat island effect.
• Reducing flooding by enhancing storm water absorption.
• Increasing public safety and quality of life through tree-lined streets.

This initiative is a collaborative effort with support from local environmental organizations, businesses, and City agencies. It aligns with Newark’s broader sustainability agenda, reinforcing the City’s commitment to climate action andcommunity well-being.

The City of Newark’s new Tree Manual outlines specific guidelines on how to comply with City ordinance. For anyone interested in participating in the Rooted In Newark Initiative contact the Office of Sustainability.

For photos, click here.

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