Warren Town Council has taken a significant step towards enhancing the community's green spaces by approving a plan to develop a tree planting initiative at Burris Hill Park. During the council meeting on May 13, 2025, members discussed the need for a comprehensive planting plan to revitalize the park, which has been underutilized and is currently described as a "dust bowl."

The proposal, spearheaded by a council member, seeks to engage a landscape architect to create a design for planting trees across an area comparable to the size of a football field. This initiative aims to provide shade and improve the park's aesthetics, making it a more inviting space for residents and visitors. The council member emphasized the importance of this project, stating that the time to plant trees is now, as the benefits will be seen in the future.

Support from the Tree Commission and the Recreation Department was evident, with members expressing enthusiasm for the project. The council discussed the potential for community involvement, including the possibility of memorial trees and partnerships with local organizations to help fund and supply the necessary resources for the planting.

In addition to the tree planting initiative, the council also addressed the need for a municipal agreement with Rhode Island Resource Recovery for solid waste disposal, ensuring the town's waste management needs are met for the upcoming fiscal year.

The council's commitment to enhancing Burris Hill Park reflects a broader strategy to increase the town's tree canopy, which is crucial for environmental health, temperature control, and air quality improvement. A public meeting is scheduled for June 11, where residents will have the opportunity to provide input on the tree canopy plan, further engaging the community in this vital initiative.