Lake County and Waukegan Launch Tree Planting Program to Boost Sustainability

Representatives from Lake County and the city of Waukegan gathered with community members to celebrate the first plantings from the Lake County Tree Planting Program, an initiative funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). The project is part of the county’s broader commitment to sustainability and climate resilience.

“Our goal is to plant 4,000 native trees over 1,200 acres in our communities across the county by the end of 2026,” says Lake County Board Chair Sandy Hart. “The additional green space will allow stormwater to be absorbed, filtering out pollutants and limiting runoff entering sewers, streams and rivers. They will enhance Lake County’s tree canopy and build resilience to the impacts of climate change, help keep our water clean and reduce the effects of flooding. We are incredibly thankful for our local partners who have applied to be part of this program and look forward to others joining us in this important initiative that will have lasting impacts throughout Lake County.”

Waukegan was awarded a grant to plant 130 new native trees along Montesano Avenue. This includes 26 different species, including sycamore, sugar maple, Kentucky coffee tree, white oak and black walnut. Waukegan Mayor Ann B. Taylor expressed gratitude for the collaboration, noting, “This is a great project to highlight our county’s commitment to sustainability and our environment.”

The Tree Planting Program is part of a broader effort to increase the county’s tree canopy, improve air quality and reduce urban heat islands. Paul Frank, chair of the Special Committee on ARPA, emphasized the program’s role in addressing climate change, stormwater management and air quality improvement.

As the program moves forward, residents and communities can expect to see more plantings across Lake County. Local nurseries and vendors will provide the trees, ensuring the economic benefits stay within the community.

“We joined with the city of Waukegan today not only to celebrate a tree planting, but a beautification of a city,” says Lake County Board Vice-Chair Mary Ross-Cunningham.

For more information about Lake County’s sustainability initiatives, visit LakeCountyIL.gov/Sustainability.