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Lafayette approves Boulder County grant to plant trees in low-canopy neighborhoods
Summary
Council unanimously approved Resolution 2025-79 to accept a Boulder County grant and intergovernmental agreement that will fund a ‘growing shade’ program, plant 75 trees in low-canopy neighborhoods, provide workshops and a May 9 pickup event, and fund a citywide tree inventory.
The Lafayette City Council voted unanimously on Dec. 2 to accept an intergovernmental funding agreement with Boulder County to expand the citytree canopy. The sustainability director presented the "growing shade" program, which aims to plant 75 trees in neighborhoods with under 25% canopy, offer tree-care workshops and tools, and run a May 9 tree pickup event for residents.
The director said Lafayette has about 41% of land available for planting and an average canopy coverage of roughly 14%. The program is tied to the cityclimate action plan and includes plans for removing and replacing ash trees affected by emerald ash borer at Sister Carmen, and conducting a full citywide tree inventory to support a community urban forestry plan. Staff noted the city has planted 43 trees in public spaces through a community forestry corps partnership over the past two years and expects to secure a community-based organization to lead planting in early 2026.
Councilors asked clarifying questions about what the 41% figure represents (the presenter said it refers to the overall city) and expressed strong support. Councilor Friedland moved and the council approved Resolution 2025-79 to authorize acceptance of the grant.
What happens next: staff will continue work to secure partners, schedule planting and education events in spring 2026, and proceed with a tree inventory to inform longer-term forestry planning.
