Chelmsford – The Healey-Driscoll Administration announced Friday over $1.3 million in grants from the Cooling Corridors program, which focuses on planting trees along popular walking routes and in environmental justice neighborhoods across Massachusetts.
The funding, through the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs’ (EEA) Division of Conservation Services, will go to thirteen municipalities, including the Town of Chelmsford, and one nonprofit organization to combat the rising heat residents are experiencing due to climate change.
The program prioritizes planting trees in environmental justice (EJ) neighborhoods – communities that often face more environmental challenges – and along paths that connect people to important places like schools, healthcare providers, and senior centers.
Chelmsford’s award of $31,750 will allow the planting of 25 new trees in Chelmsford’s dog park, which is one of the community’s busiest parks.
“Investing in green spaces is vital for the health and well-being of our residents,” said Governor Maura Healey. “By planting trees and creating more parks, we ensure that everyone – especially those in environmental justice communities – has access to cleaner air and a better quality of life.”
“Adding more trees to our neighborhoods goes beyond just making our streets look nicer – it’s about ensuring our communities are cooler and more comfortable for everyone,” adds Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “By focusing on tree planting along our walking routes, we’re taking meaningful steps to reduce heat and create welcoming spaces for families to come together.”
The Cooling Corridors grant program aims to create cooler and more enjoyable spaces for walking and gathering by planting trees that offer shade.
In neighborhoods that experience high summer temperatures, establishing tree cover, including small groups of trees known as micro-forests, can significantly help reduce heat-related health issues, particularly in EJ populations that are often more vulnerable to extreme heat. In high-density urban areas, just five trees planted per acre can benefit 15 to 25 households.
The grantees receiving these grants will also take care of the newly planted trees for two years to ensure they thrive.
To enhance the cooling effects even further, some projects will include strategies like removing heat-absorbing surfaces and painting dark surfaces with lighter colors.
