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Media Contact: Corinne Ahrens, cahrens@ceislermedia.com, 610.806.3728
Philly Tree Coalition Releases First Annual Report Highlighting Three Years of Philly Tree Plan Achievements
Report highlights investments in public health, urban forestry workforce development and community partnerships.
PHILADELPHIA, PA — November 12, 2026 — The Philly Tree Coalition, in partnership with the City of Philadelphia and community organizations, today released the first annual Philly Tree Plan Progress Report, highlighting significant achievements in expanding and caring for Philadelphia’s urban forest during the first three years of implementation.
Since the launch of the Philly Tree Plan, partners have made significant strides in expanding and sustaining Philadelphia’s urban forest, strengthening community stewardship and investing in a healthier, greener and more equitable city.
- 18,581 trees planted
- 44,773 hours spent on tree maintenance
- 32,873 trees maintained
- 537 individuals trained in tree stewardship
- 5 succession plans developed
- 10 Tree Forward grants awarded
- $765,000 allocated to grassroots organizations
Trees are a critical public health investment, helping improve air quality, reduce extreme heat, manage stormwater and create healthier neighborhoods. The Philly Tree Coalition brings together City agencies, nonprofit organizations, community groups, funders and residents to expand tree canopy and ensure that the benefits of urban trees reach neighborhoods across Philadelphia.
“The Philly Tree Plan is an investment in the health and future of Philadelphia’s neighborhoods. It is part of the Office of Clean and Green’s 10-point Green Plan to make Philadelphia cleaner and greener. Under Mayor Parker’s leadership, we are committed to creating cleaner, greener and healthier communities where every resident can thrive. The progress we’ve made over the past three years demonstrates the power of bringing City government, community organizations and residents together around a shared vision. We look forward to building on this momentum and expanding the benefits of our urban forest across Philadelphia” said Carlton Williams, Managing Director, City of Philadelphia.
Pathways into a Greener Economy
Beyond tree planting and maintenance, the Philly Tree Plan is creating pathways into Philadelphia’s growing green economy. Workforce development partners trained 44 urban forestry participants, awarded 33 industry credentials and connected graduates with employment opportunities. Programs such as Future Track are helping expand access to training and careers in urban forestry.
These investments strengthen the workforce needed to plant, maintain and protect Philadelphia’s trees while creating opportunities for residents to participate in the city’s environmental future.
“Just three years after the launch of the Philly Tree Plan, we have moved decisively from planning to implementation. We are seeing real progress not only in the number of trees planted, but in the systems, workforce, partnerships, and policies needed to sustain this work for decades to come” said Susan Slawson, Commissioner, Philadelphia Parks & Recreation.
Mobilizing Partnerships and Volunteers
Over the reporting period, 433 residents graduated from Tree Tenders training, and 537 volunteers contributed to urban forestry efforts across the city.
Community organizations and resident leaders have also helped guide implementation, particularly in priority neighborhoods where expanding tree canopy can contribute to healthier environments and improved quality of life.
“No single organization can grow Philadelphia’s urban forest alone. What makes this effort extraordinary is the collaboration between residents, community organizations, city agencies, funders, and nonprofit partners who share a common vision for a greener and healthier Philadelphia” said Kiasha Huling, Director of the Philly Tree Coalition.
From Planning to Implementation
Three years into implementation, Philadelphia has moved beyond establishing a citywide vision to building the partnerships, policies and infrastructure necessary to sustain long-term progress.
The report documents achievements in tree planting, maintenance, workforce development and community engagement, while identifying priorities and opportunities to advance the Philly Tree Plan in the years ahead.
The Philly Tree Coalition and its partners will present the report’s findings on November 12, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. at 4601 Market Street, Philadelphia, bringing together City leadership, community partners and stakeholders to reflect on progress and discuss next steps.
The full report is available at https://www.phillytreecoalition.org/about/2026-progress-report
About the Philly Tree Coalition
The Philly Tree Coalition, hosted by Public Health Management Corporation, is a resident-led, cross-sector partnership that includes representatives from seven priority areas and key community partners across Philadelphia. As the primary facilitator of the Philly Tree Plan, the Philly Tree Coalition is dedicated to a 30-year vision: growing Philadelphia’s tree canopy to 30%. Learn more: https://www.phillytreecoalition.org/
Public Health Management Corporation (PHMC) serves as the proud host and organizational home of the Philly Tree Coalition. PHMC is the largest health and human services organization in the region and the public health institute for Pennsylvania and Delaware. PHMC uses best practices to improve community health through direct service, partnership, innovation, policy, research, technical assistance and a prepared workforce. Drawing on more than 50 years of public health leadership, PHMC brings decades of expertise in leveraging complex partnerships to maximize community impact. Learn more: https://www.phmc.org/
