Titusville TEC endorses 3‑3‑300 urban-nature benchmark for future urban-forest program

The Titusville Tree and Environmental Commission voted to recommend adoption of the ‘‘3‑3‑300’’ urban‑nature benchmark as guidance for the city’s future urban‑forest program and master plan.

The 3‑3‑300 framework asks that residents be able to see at least three well‑established trees from their home or workplace, that neighborhoods aim for at least 30% tree canopy, and that residents live within 300 meters (about a five‑minute walk) of a quality green space of at least 1.2 acres. Case Saint Orange, a public commenter, summarized the research basis and measurement strategies for the benchmark and recommended the commission use the framework to target investments.

"The goal states that everyone should be able to see at least 3 well established trees from their home, workplace, or place of learning," Case Saint Orange told the commission, citing US Forest Service and Planet GEO materials on the 3‑3‑300 rule.

Commissioners said the 3‑3‑300 benchmark complements existing city goals — including the comprehensive plan objective that residents be within a 10‑minute walk of a park — and that the standard should be used as a tool for the incoming urban‑forest manager and for prioritizing planting in underserved areas. Member Browning and others said the standard could inform the master plan and outreach once the city selects a consultant.

The motion to recommend incorporation of the 3‑3‑300 rule into future urban‑forest programming was moved and seconded, and commissioners approved it by voice vote ("All in favor, say aye"). No formal roll‑call was recorded for this item.

Commissioners directed that the recommendation be considered by the urban‑forest master‑plan team and that the 3‑3‑300 benchmark be used as one of the tools to prioritize tree plantings, equity of canopy distribution and park access in the city.