NYCHA Tree Initiative: AG James Unveils $750K Project

New York Attorney General Letitia James has joined forces with the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) and Trees New York to announce a $750,000 initiative aimed at restoring green spaces in public housing communities. The program, called ‘Trees for NYCHA,’ will plant nearly 400 new trees across NYCHA properties and neighboring streets, focusing on areas with low tree cover.

Attorney General James highlighted the project’s dual goals of environmental restoration and community empowerment. “Our Trees for NYCHA project is a model of what we can do when we invest directly in our communities,” she said. “This initiative has brought real change and environmental justice to neighborhoods often left behind.”

The funds for this project come from settlements negotiated by the Office of the Attorney General, including $663,738 from a 2007 Clean Air Act settlement with American Electric Power Service Corporation, and $59,500 from a 2023 settlement with Reliant Transportation over unlawful bus idling.

In addition to tree plantings, the initiative includes workforce development programs for young adults, tree stewardship training for volunteers, and environmental education activities for students. NYCHA CEO Lisa Bova-Hiatt emphasized the project’s multifaceted approach: “Trees for NYCHA will not only add trees to NYCHA’s natural canopy but also invest in public housing residents through meaningful workforce development programs.”

Nelson Villarrubia, Executive Director of Trees New York, noted the significant impact of tree planting on urban environments: “The 399 newly planted trees will help reduce energy demand, mask unsightly views, muffle sound, and absorb dust, wind, and excess stormwater.”