Where Trees Take Root, Communities Rise!
A greener Hampton Roads isn’t just about trees—it’s about transforming lives, cooling communities, and restoring balance where it’s needed most
Our Impact
A Greener Hampton Roads is more than a tree planting initiative—it's a movement for long-term change, equity, and resilience in Norfolk’s most vulnerable neighborhoods. Every tree planted, every young person trained, and every partnership built is part of our mission to create a healthier, greener, and more just city.
We believe that measurable, people-centered progress is the key to making urban forestry meaningful—not just for the environment, but for the lives it touches every day.
By the Numbers
Here’s how we’re making a difference across Norfolk:
10+ Disadvantaged Tracts Identified using the CEJST (Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool)
Hundreds of Native Trees Planted in parks, school grounds, vacant lots, and residential areas
3-Year Tree Maintenance Guarantee including watering, pruning, and monitoring
40+ Residents Engaged in tree planting and stewardship events
New Curriculum Developed for environmental education in Norfolk schools
Paid Workforce Training for youth and adults in tree care and green careers
Partnerships Formed with schools, city agencies, civic leagues, and community groups
Aligning with Justice & Equality
Our work is deeply rooted in the principles of environmental justice and racial equity. We prioritize communities that have been historically underserved and disproportionately affected by disinvestment, pollution, and climate change.
This project directly supports the goals of the:
Justice40 Initiative
America the Beautiful Program
USDA’s Urban & Community Forestry Action Plan
Community Benefits
1. Cooler Neighborhoods
Trees help combat extreme urban heat. By strategically planting in areas most impacted by rising temperatures and heat islands, we’re cooling streets, reducing energy costs, and protecting public health.
2. Cleaner Air
Tree canopies filter out harmful pollutants, improving air quality for families in areas with high rates of asthma and respiratory conditions. Every tree is a step toward cleaner, healthier breathing spaces.
3. Stronger Public Health
Studies show that greener environments lead to better physical and mental health. We’re working to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve life expectancy through increased access to nature.
4. More Job Opportunities
Through workforce development and paid training, we're equipping residents with practical, in-demand skills for careers in environmental science, landscaping, and urban forestry.
5. Youth Empowerment
Young people are learning about environmental justice, civic engagement, and career pathways through educational programs co-designed with local educators and Norfolk State University faculty.
6. Safer, More Beautiful Spaces
Blighted and vacant lots are being transformed into green spaces that foster pride, community cohesion, and safer neighborhoods. Trees have been shown to reduce crime and promote public gathering.
📌 Looking Ahead
As we continue to grow the A Greener Hampton Roads initiative, our focus remains on sustainability, accountability, and community leadership. Each tree planted is part of a larger legacy—a future where all Norfolk residents can thrive in a clean, green, and resilient environment.
“When we plant trees, we plant hope—rooted in equity, grown with purpose, and shared by all.”
— Hampton Roads Blue Green Oasis
