East Boston residents will see more trees in the neighborhood
BOSTON – In recognition of Earth Day, the Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) is happy to announce a new partnership with the local non-profit Tree Eastie to support the expansion of urban forestry in East Boston. As the owner and operator of more than 40 acres of open space, Massport views this collaboration as an important step in advancing environmental sustainability while investing directly in the health and resilience of the East Boston community.
“This partnership reflects our responsibility as a neighbor in East Boston,” said Massport CEO Rich Davey. “We recognize the impacts we have on the surrounding community, and we are committed to taking meaningful action. Collaborations like this one with Tree Eastie are an important part of being a better neighbor and our long-term goal of achieving Net Zero.”
Over the next two years, Massport and Tree Eastie will work together to plant native and climate-resilient trees in public areas owned and maintained by Massport throughout East Boston. These new plantings will help mitigate urban heat, improve air quality, manage stormwater, and enhance the neighborhood’s green spaces for residents and visitors alike. Urban trees play a critical role in combating the impacts of climate change.
“I’m excited to see this partnership between Massport and Tree Eastie to expand the urban forestry around our neighborhood,” said Representative Adrian Madaro. “Air and noise pollution have long been some of the biggest impacts our community faces from Logan Airport, and these trees will provide important mitigation that improves the well-being and quality of life for residents. I appreciate Massport’s continued commitment to being responsible stewards of open space in East Boston, and I’m incredibly proud of the work Tree Eastie is doing as a grassroots organization of neighborhood volunteers to expand and enhance our community’s tree canopy”
Tree Eastie has a strong track record of community-led environmental stewardship, having partnered with local residents, civic organizations, and businesses to plant more than 700 trees across East Boston. The organization’s mission is rooted in advancing environmental equity by expanding tree canopy coverage, educating residents about the benefits of urban forestry, and empowering community members to take an active role in greening their neighborhood. Tree Eastie’s work has been supported by a range of public and private partners, including the Arbor Day Foundation, JetBlue, and TD Bank.
“As an all-volunteer non-profit, Tree Eastie is committed to increasing the tree canopy in East Boston, which currently has one of the lowest coverage rates in the city,” said Bill Masterson, Founder and Executive Director of Tree Eastie. “Our partnership with Massport creates significant planting opportunities to add shade along pedestrian routes and mitigate the impacts of noise and air pollution. We are excited about the possibilities this collaboration holds for the community.”
Massport has made significant commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across its facilities and operations, investing in clean energy and electrification, and integrating sustainability into our top priorities. Expanding urban forestry complements these efforts by providing natural climate solutions that deliver local environmental benefits while supporting community health and wellbeing. From building parks and green space in our neighborhood to installing solar panels on our buildings, Massport is committed to being a sustainable, good neighbor for all.
Going Above and Beyond. The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) owns and operates Boston Logan International Airport, public terminals in the Port of Boston, Hanscom Field, and Worcester Regional Airport. For more information, please visit massport.com.
