June 4, 2004

CITY, COUNTY PARTNER TO PLANT 150 TREES IN RAHWAY

Rahway, NJ – Mayor James Kennedy announced this week that the City will be partnering with Union County’s “Greening Union County” grant program to plant 150 trees throughout the city this Fall.  The county is providing $15,000 from the Union County Open Space, Recreation and Historic Preservation Trust Fund and the city is matching that amount 100 percent.  The $30,000 total program includes the purchase and installation of the trees.

According to Third Ward Councilman Jerry Scaturo, street trees are in high demand in his ward and throughout Rahway.

 “Homeowners are very passionate about their trees,” said Scaturo.  “This will satisfy the waiting list that presently exists for street trees in our neighborhoods.”

First Ward Councilman Bob Rachlin agreed.

“It’s estimated that each street tree adds some $5,000 to the value of a home,” he said.  “This grant from Union County will triple the number of new trees planted in Rahway this year.”

The trees to be planted include Amur Maackia (Maackia amurensis), Japanese zelkova (Zelkova serrata), Greenspire Littleleaf Linden (Tilia cordata) and Bonfire Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum).

Fourth Ward Councilman Dave Brown said that the trees will be planted in October or November after they are purchased through the county.

“Street trees are essential to our property values, our quality of life and the health of our environment.”  2004 will be the greenest year yet in Rahway.”

Homeowners may request a street tree by calling the Department of Public Works at (732) 827-2060 or by clicking here.