Tree Canopy Renovation - This project will focus on the removal of dead or dying trees within the area of the District of Columbia served by the Combined Sewer System (CSS).  Many of these trees are in tree boxes that limit root space due to small tree box size or have poor or compacted soils.  Since these dead or dying trees are not providing high environmental benefits, they will be removed and the soil in the tree box will be amended.  New trees will then be planted in these enhanced tree boxes and will be watered as needed to guarantee a higher survival rate.  The resulting increase in the District’s urban tree canopy will reduce the urban heat island effect which will improve air quality by reducing the formation of ground-level ozone/smog, provide more shade and lower temperatures, increase property values and absorb more stormwater runoff.  When appropriate, this project will include curb cuts to make the tree boxes into water infiltration tree planters.  This project may also be coupled with the “Impervious Surface Reduction Project” so that the newly planted trees will have a larger tree box that increases its water-absorbing potential and provides more room for root spreading and tree growth.  DDOE is partnering with the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) on this project.
 
Project Timeline:  March 2010 – April 2011
Funding:  $2,050,000