AKRON, Ohio — More shade is on the way as Akron prepares to plant 1,800 trees this summer.

The city is budgeting $750,000 toward the street tree program for the plantings and will hand out flyers to residents who can expect trees to get planted in their lawns. 

“The investments made into our tree canopy will increase in value over time, both in terms of financial value and benefits provided to our community,” said Akron Mayor Shammas Malik. “A healthier urban forest is linked to improved health outcomes for residents—including lower rates of respiratory disease, improved birth outcomes, and other physical and psychological benefits. Other benefits include reducing the burden of the heat island effect and enhancing a sense of safety and community in neighborhoods. Investing in the urban forest in neighborhoods most impacted by tree loss and disinvestment will ensure that the benefits of the tree canopy are shared throughout the city.”

The city now employs three certified arborists who help manage and maintain tree planting and maintenance in Akron. 

Tree planting will be focused in the south and southwest portions of the city where the tree canopy is limited. The benefits of a tree canopy include removing pollutants and carbon from the air and reducing peak stormwater flows.

Akron's annual benefits from the tree cover, using 2018 data, is at an estimated $27.3 million. The city's tree canopy removed an estimated 1.2 million pounds of pollutants and 70,113 tons of carbon. It also slowed more than 255 million gallons of stormwater from entering sewer drains.

According to 2020's tree canopy report, the city's current tree canopy is 34.85%, indicating a healthy urban forest when compared with similar mid-sized northeastern cities. However, the city has been losing tree canopy over time.

The trees planted include native species like Northern Red Oak, Serviceberry and Sugar Maple. 

Residents can raise any concerns or questions with the Akron Tree Commission. To request a street tree, call 311, visit akronohio.gov/311 or download the free Akron311 app.