From the Greenwich Tree Conservancy
Over 90% of American households own at least one car, and in Connecticut 77% of residents drive to work. Parking lots are ubiquitous in Greenwich but they do not have to be eyesores.
Since 2018, the Greenwich Tree Conservancy has prioritized the greening of town parking lots. This summer they have planted 14 additional trees in the William Street and Henry Street parking lots in Byram as part of their “Parking Parks” initiative.
William Street Parking Lot. Photo by Kate Dzikiewicz
Unshaded pavement can be up to 45° F hotter than shaded areas, significantly contributing to the heat island effect seen in urban spaces. One of the simplest yet most effective methods to combat this problem is by planting trees. The shade provided by trees helps keep parking lots and cars cooler, but they also provide many other benefits to human health and the environment.
Trees reduce water runoff from paved areas and improve air quality by removing particulate matter, ozone, and other harmful pollutants. They also soften the visual impact of parking lots and help integrate them more harmoniously into the surrounding neighborhood. Studies have shown they reduce stress, enhance mood, promote physical activity, and lower crime rates in neighborhoods where they are planted.
Henry Street Parking Lot in Byram. Photos by Kate Dzikiewicz
The Greenwich Tree Conservancy uses a “right tree, right place” approach and collaborates with Dr. Greg Kramer, Town of Greenwich Superintendent of Parks & Trees and Tree Warden.
Parking lots are challenging environments for trees and Dr. Kramer selects ornamental and shade trees that suit a neighborhood’s aesthetics and can withstand the heat, air pollution, and de-icing salts they may be exposed to.
The Greenwich Tree Conservancy is dedicated to preserving and enhancing the urban canopy of Greenwich and is proud to add these two lots to its “Parking Parks” initiative.