Spokane Council approves Downtown reforestation pilot program for tree sustainability

In the heart of Spokane, city officials gathered on July 10, 2025, to discuss a transformative initiative aimed at revitalizing the urban landscape through a new reforestation pilot program. The Spokane Park Board meeting buzzed with excitement as council members and city staff outlined plans to enhance the downtown area’s tree canopy, addressing both aesthetic and environmental concerns.

Council member Bingle, a key advocate for the initiative, emphasized the multifaceted challenges of urban tree planting. “It’s not just about planting a tree; it’s about navigating vehicle and pedestrian congestion, maintaining sidewalks, and managing irrigation,” he explained. The proposed program seeks to streamline these processes, making it easier for property owners to plant, prune, and maintain trees sustainably for years to come.

A significant aspect of the initiative is the collaboration with the Downtown Spokane Partnership (DSP). This partnership aims to provide property owners with the guidance needed to successfully integrate trees into their properties. “We will have an urban forester dedicated to offering step-by-step assistance,” Bingle noted, ensuring that trees are planted in the right locations and cared for properly.

Funding for this ambitious project will come from the Tree Equity Spokane grant program, which aligns with the Climate and Economic Justice screening tool. This financial backing will support not only the planting of trees but also the collection and analysis of data to assess the program's effectiveness over the next year.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of community involvement and education. Council members expressed gratitude for the input from local nurseries and property owners, who have voiced their concerns about the state of downtown greenery. “We’re excited to see more lively and exciting trees downtown, which will benefit everyone,” one council member remarked, reflecting a shared enthusiasm for the project’s potential impact.

As the meeting concluded, the board unanimously approved the resolution to establish the one-year pilot program, setting the stage for a greener, more vibrant Spokane. With the fall planting season on the horizon, city officials are optimistic about the positive changes this initiative will bring to the urban environment, fostering a sense of community pride and ecological responsibility.