West Bend City is set to enhance its green spaces with a new tree planting initiative approved during the Parks & Recreation Commission meeting on January 25, 2024. The city has secured a favorable contract for tree planting, coming in under budget at approximately $78,000, well below the allocated $98,000. This project will see the planting of 108 trees as part of the popular free street tree program, which has garnered significant community interest.

The distribution of these trees will span various locations throughout the city, with specific plans to replace trees lost due to road reconstruction on South Laurel and Pennsylvania Avenue. Additionally, the Eighteenth Street demonstration project will receive 10 new trees, allowing residents to explore different species before making selections for their own properties. Regner Park will benefit from the planting of 41 trees to restore its tree canopy, while the Riverwalk's newly developed areas will see 54 trees added in phases 2, 3, and 4.

A portion of the funding for this initiative comes from a $25,000 grant awarded by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) in December. This grant will not only support the planting efforts but also fund staff training and the implementation of a tree identification program. This program will feature tree tags equipped with QR codes, enabling residents to scan and access immediate information about tree species and their locations on city maps.

The city has contracted Dan Larson Landscapes for the planting, a company with a strong track record of quality work and customer satisfaction. The initiative aims to not only beautify the city but also educate residents about the importance of trees and their care.

As West Bend moves forward with this tree planting project, the community can look forward to a greener environment and enhanced public spaces, reinforcing the city's commitment to sustainability and community engagement.