City launches program with tremendous growth potential

by Dan Holland

The city’s Commemorative Tree Program kicked off in earnest Nov. 3 with the planting of the first trees along Oakes Road on the city campus.

Broadview Heights residents John and Twila Goshorn were the first to have a tree planted under the new program, done in memory of their son, Matthew, a U.S. Air Force veteran who passed away 12 years ago.

Interested parties can pay a fee to have a tree planted and dedicated for a five-year period, which includes a personalized commemorative plaque. Once planted, the trees become property of the city with all associated maintenance and upkeep performed by city workers. Plantings are typically done in the spring or fall.

Residents can choose from three tree types: Northern Red Oak, Yellow Poplar or Blackgum. Requests for other tree types will be reviewed by the city’s service department and shade tree commission for approval. Five areas around city campus – mostly following the campus recreation trail – are designated for the plantings, with a stretch along Oakes Road identified as priority area No. 1.

“It’s all about not forgetting loved ones or important people in our lives,” said Mayor Sam Alai. “With John and Twila being the first ones participating in this program, they’re getting it started in memory of their son. Now, we just hope that more people will come forward and participate in the program now that it’s out here.”

The idea for the program was initially developed in 2021 by the city’s shade tree commission, according to the group’s chairman Jim Kraus.

“It doesn’t necessarily have to be in memory of an individual,” added Service Director David Schroedel. “It could be a family that just wants to plant a tree in the city to have something long-lasting here that helps beautify the city campus.” For further information, contact the city service department at 440-717-4022 or visit online at broadview-heights.org/1447/Commemorative-Tree-Program