East Palo Alto Becomes a Tree City USA and Celebrates with a Tree Planting Event at Joel Davis Park

East Palo Alto Becomes a Tree City USA and Celebrates with a Tree Planting Event at Joel Davis Park

East Palo Alto, CA – The City of East Palo Alto was officially recognized as a Tree City USA through a designation awarded by the National Arbor Day Foundation on April 14, 2025.

This historic designation is given to cities that demonstrate an ongoing commitment to their urban canopy by meeting the Foundation's strict tree care and protection standards. The City achieved this distinction through years of collaborative work between City staff, nonprofit partner Canopy, and community members.

Obtaining Tree City status was listed as an objective in the City's adopted 2022 Urban Forest Master Plan (UFMP). The UFMP was drafted in conjunction with a community steering committee and prioritizes tree planting, community tree stewardship, and the ongoing protection of public and private trees.

The final requirement for obtaining a Tree City designation was met in 2024 with the City Council’s adoption of a proclamation establishing an annual Arbor Day celebration. On April 25th City staff, partners, and community members commemorated this distinction with the planting of a ginkgo tree in Joel Davis Park.

Urban trees can provide cost effective, natural solutions to climate and environmental challenges faced by the City. By providing shade, a robust canopy can cool buildings and outdoor spaces and allow people to spend time outside during warm weather, exercising, socializing, biking, or walking. In addition, trees are beloved by community members for their enhancement of livelihoods and as a source of joy.

“I am proud to announce that the City of East Palo Alto has earned the prestigious Tree City USA certification, a testament to our community's commitment to preserving and enhancing our urban forest,” said Public Works Department Director, Humza Javed. “This achievement reflects years of dedication by the residents, volunteers, staff and partners. Together, we are growing a greener, healthier East Palo Alto for generations to come!”

The City hopes this designation inspires a continued spirit of tree care in our community.