2024 has been a big year for the Maple City!!
From the City of Hornell
The City of Hornell is living up to its designation as an official Tree City, recently planting 27 trees at Veterans Memorial Park. This comes shortly after several trees were also replaced on Main Street and Broadway as part of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI).
Mayor John Buckley expressed his enthusiasm for the tree planting, saying, “2024 has seen the most trees planted by the City of Hornell in a single year, not including the replacement trees through the DRI. Planting trees is always a priority in the City of Hornell, and this year is no exception. While we’ve introduced fantastic new infrastructure like tennis and pickleball courts, a splash pad, sidewalk replacements, and more, it’s important to also introduce natural growth, such as trees. These trees will enhance our beautiful park and provide many environmental benefits.”
The newly planted trees, which include Sienna Glen Maples, Skyline Honey Locusts, Little Leaf Lindens, and London Plane Trees, have been placed throughout Veterans Memorial Park to improve the park’s aesthetics and provide numerous environmental benefits. Trees contribute to the health and sustainability of our community’s environment by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, which reduces our carbon footprint and improves air quality. Additionally, they prevent soil erosion, provide habitats for wildlife, conserve energy by offering shade, and help reduce noise pollution. This added greenery will contribute to the long-term well-being of both residents and the local ecosystem.
Mayor Buckley also extended his gratitude to the Department of Public Works (DPW) staff, saying, “I want to recognize and commend the hard work of our DPW team, who ensured these trees were planted with care throughout the park. Their continued efforts in maintaining and improving our beautiful parks are greatly appreciated.”
This year’s tree planting not only sets a record for the City, but also highlights the City of Hornell’s ongoing commitment to preserving and enhancing its natural spaces. We encourage residents to take a stroll through the park to enjoy these new additions to our beautiful park.
