Throughout our 210-year history, Raleigh has been blessed with an abundance of trees. No other American city identifies more closely with trees. Raleigh is the “City of Oaks.” The oak tree, the oak laurel and acorns are the focus of the official City seal.
The benefits of trees are myriad. Unfortunately, over the past several years Raleigh has lost thousands of trees – as a result of a hurricanes, ice storms, and development -- that have not been replaced.
To take care of this urgent need, we launched Raleigh’s NeighborWoods in 2003. The present goal of the program is to plant 2,000 trees annually. The City has budgeted funds to plant 500 of these trees along thoroughfares and to staff the program.
To pay for the remaining 1,500 trees that are to be planted annually, Raleigh is seeking contributions from our citizens. It is easy to be a contributor to Raleigh’s NeighborWoods. Just complete a pledge form or make a one-time donation! The City will add the amount you indicate to your utility bill for the time period you indicate. You may also call 890-3245 to setup a pledge for your next bill. More than 9,000 residential trees have been planted since the initiation of the program thanks to generous citizen contributions.
Any amount that you may be able to contribute to Raleigh’s NeighborWoods is greatly appreciated.
Contributions from $5 to $10 per bi-monthly bill are suggested. My wife, Anne, and I are contributing $10 per bi-monthly bill. Please join with us in replenishing our city’s healthy and beautiful green canopy.
Thank you,
Charles Meeker
Mayor
For More Information Contact:
Sherry Graham
Tree Planting Coordinator
Parks and Recreation Department
P. O. Box 590
Raleigh, NC 27601
919-996-4115
