Trees taking root in Sandusky

SANDUSKY — They're planting roots for a more environmentally friendly community. During a recent public meeting, Sandusky city commissioners approved a $54,200 expense for the local government's annual tree planting initiative. The project consists of planting dozens of new trees within boulevard areas across various neighborhoods. The planting process, which recently began in some areas, should be complete by Nov. 30. They're slated to go in Churchwell Park as well as areas along Buchanan Street, Karl-Ann Drive, Mills Street, Pierce Street, Putnam Street and Stahlwood Drive. Aaron Klein, the city's public works director, answered some more questions about the upcoming work and overall goal: • The background: "In 2024, the city was awarded a $125,000 grant by the Ohio Division of Forestry through the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service to plant trees in coordination with the Churchwell Park project and southside improvements. A portion of the funding was used to plant trees in the newly expanded park. The remaining funds will target boulevard areas in the surrounding neighborhoods that were outside the project scope but lack desirable/sufficient tree canopy." • The numbers: "At least 109 trees will be planted this fall in addition to the 107 trees planted in (Churchwell Park) for a minimum of 216 trees. Our forestry division planted 190 in 2024 and 147 in 2023. Using grant funds and contracting the work of planting the trees allows us to leverage Forestry staff time and local dollars for other essential matters." • The advantages: "Trees provide many benefits, including: — Increasing property values — Reducing a household's energy consumption for heating and cooling — Removing pollution from the atmosphere — Improving air quality and human health" • The objective: "This is an investment that will improve residents' quality of life and revitalize the southside neighborhood."