The Brooklyn Heights Assocaition conducted a street tree census last year,
during which our volunteers found that many of the Heights’ street trees suffer from overcrowded tree roots and tree pits too small to provide the tree with adequate nutrients and water.
In response, “the BHA is launching a project to enlarge sub-standard tree pits in cooperation with committed owners.” To participate in the project, owners must be BHA members; join here. In addition, they must meet the following requirements:
• Have a tree pit smaller than 25 square feet (approx. 5 x 5 ft.)
• Have a sidewalk that is entirely concrete
• Provide owner’s consent to the BHA
The BHA will then:
• Ensure that each location meets Parks Department guidelines
• Meet with the tree owner to review the project
• Contribute up to 50% of each project’s estimated $500-$600 cost
• Find licensed tree contractors to perform the work
• Ensure proper insurance coverage and obtain all necessary permits
• Coordinate with the contractor and City agencies
Note that:
The BHA reserves the right to select all qualifying locations. Preference will be given to blocks with multiple tree pit enlargement applications, so if you are an interested owner, encourage your neighbors to apply as well. We hope to complete this work by the spring of 2017.
If you’re interested, or want more information, please call the BHA at 718-818-9153 or e-mail to info@thebha.org
