Committee approves forwarding application for urban greening grant to plant trees, train workforce

The committee unanimously forwarded a resolution authorizing Public Works to apply for an estimated $450–$456,000 in Urban Greening Program funds from the California Natural Resources Agency. John Sway of Public Works’ Urban Forestry described a project to plant and maintain about 200 street trees in neighborhoods with low canopy — including the Tenderloin and South of Market — and to support workforce development through the city’s new street tree nursery at Fifth and Harrison Streets.

Sway said the application was evaluated during a site visit with state staff and local partners including the Transgender District, the Tenderloin and South of Market community benefit districts, and community advocates. If awarded, Public Works expects to return to the Board for an accept‑and‑expend resolution to receive the funds and proceed with planting and nursery workforce activities.

The committee voted to forward the resolution to the full Board with a positive recommendation; supervisors requested co‑sponsorships.