Lexington's Environmental Quality and Public Works Committee has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing the city's urban canopy through two key programs aimed at assisting homeowners with hazardous street trees. During the meeting on June 10, 2025, officials highlighted the importance of maintaining a healthy urban forest for both community safety and environmental benefits.

The Hazard Street Tree Cost Share program is designed to help private property owners remove and replace hazardous trees located in street tree easements. This initiative addresses the financial burden of tree maintenance and removal, which can be significant. The program offers a reimbursement rate of 50% for homeowners, with 100% funding available for those who meet specific income thresholds. This year, the program has already allocated nearly all of its $150,000 budget, demonstrating its popularity and the high demand for such assistance.

In addition to the Hazard Street Tree program, the Courtesy Street Tree Pruning program was also discussed, emphasizing the city's proactive approach to tree care. The committee noted that the funding for these programs is typically exhausted by September each year, indicating a strong community need for tree management services.

Over the past decade, the Hazard Street Tree program has engaged approximately 1,500 participants, with 72 homeowners benefiting this year alone. Notably, 11 of these participants received full grant funding, reflecting the committee's efforts to reach out to those who may struggle to afford tree maintenance costs.

The committee's discussions underscore the critical role of urban forestry in Lexington, not only for aesthetic and environmental reasons but also for public safety. As the city continues to invest in these programs, residents can expect ongoing support for maintaining and enhancing the urban tree canopy, which is vital for the community's health and well-being.