Money may not grow on trees, but trees can grow for only $35!

From the Parks Department:

May 28, 2009

Contact: Natalie Eggeman (260-427-6028)
Chad Tinkel (260-427-5203)

One Month Left to Order Street Trees

Fort Wayne, IN: June 30th is the last day residents can apply for a street tree, which the City would plant adjacent to their property, on the street right of way this fall.

The street tree program has been offered annually for more than 15 years. Trees are offered at $35 on a first-come, first-served basis. This year, the City hopes to plant up to 1000 trees through this program, depending upon the species that are planted, and the funding available.

Neighborhood organizations are encouraged to spread the word and can work with program staff to plant in multiple locations. Also, the $35 fee per tree may be waived for applicants whose incomes fall below certain limits.

“It’s important to us to continue our tradition of being a green city, here in Fort Wayne,” said Chad Tinkel, Parks and Recreation Manager of Forestry Operations. “Planting trees is great for the environment and providing trees with sturdy branches that are resistant to storm damage ensures the community can enjoy them for a long time.”

One tree alone can absorb more than 1,000 pounds of carbon dioxide, helping Fort Wayne achieve EPA air quality standards. Trees absorb rainfall, helping reduce the release of sewage into the rivers in heavy rains.
Studies show how shade trees reduce energy consumption in summer by reducing air conditioning loads.

Street trees cool the streets and neighborhoods with their shade and studies have shown that trees increase property value in well planted neighborhoods.

Residents can download an application from www.fortwayneparks.org home page, or call 427-6400 to have an application mailed to them.

Some trees are better than others for planting along streets. They’re considered “good neighbor” trees with deep root systems that aren’t considered invasive to sewer systems. These strong, disease-resistant trees include various Maple, Oak, Honey Locust, Gingko, Linden, and Plane varieties, among others, listed on the application.

For more information about street trees and the benefits of trees, visit www.fortwayneparks.org, click on Parks Maintenance then choose the street trees link.

Info from Karen Goldner

On Monday at the 2nd District Community Meeting, someone asked me to send out the TinCaps website, where you can buy tickets to see our team play at Parkview Field. The site is http://tincaps.com/, and if you haven't been to a game you should go check it out.

Many people ask me about the impact of federal stimulus money in Fort Wayne. I will summarize by saying that the amount we are getting is, in a word, underwhelming. However, you can get more specific information at the next Community Services Council (CSC) Special Public Forum which will be held Thursday, May 7, at 6 p.m. in the City Council Chambers (Room 126/128 of the City County Building, One Main Street). Speakers will include representatives from various city departments including Public Works, Community Development, City Utilities, Energy and Public Safety. In addition to direct funding to the City of Fort Wayne, there will be information presented on funding for Citilink, schools and non-profit organizations.

RSVP is not required, but if you'd like additional information on the meeting you can contact Denise Porter-Ross, denise.porter-ross@cityoffortwayne.org.