Highland Park to go on tree-planting spree

The Highland Park United Neighborhood Association wants Highland Park to become “the city of trees” once more. Beginning in spring 2014, Greening of Detroit will be planting a variety of trees in parks, at public sites, along Woodward sidewalks and in front of homes in partnership with the HPUNA and the city of Highland Park. Eric Candela, Greening of Detroit’s government relations and grants manager, told the Michigan Citizen trees provide much more than aesthetic benefit sot neighborhoods. “Academic and research studies show trees actually increase home values.  People will pay more for a well-treed home,” he said. “Trees also make people more exited to spend time in their yards. By coming out of their homes, they interact with their neighbors more often, which studies also show, significantly reduces crime.” Candela also said trees on the west and south sides of the house reduce heating costs in winter and cooling costs in summer. Additionally, drivers generally slow down to look on tree lined streets, enjoying the scenery, which reduces the number of accidents, he says. Highland Park residents who want trees planted in front of their homes are invited to contact the HPUNA at 313.252.1060. The HPUNA, an organization of block clubs and residents, invites all Highland Park residents to attend their membership meetings held monthly on the third Thursday at 7:00 p.m. at the Park Place, 15885 Woodward Ave. — Staff report