Village Celebrates
28th Year as Tree City USA 

Trees not only add beauty to their surroundings, but have also proven to contribute to a community's economy and way of life. According to the Urban Forestry Network, property values increase 5 to 15 percent when compared to properties without trees depending on species, maturity, quantity and location. The Village of Rockville Centre has been recognized as a "Tree City USA" for the past 28 years from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Division of Lands and Forests. The Tree City USA program is a national program that provides the framework for community forestry management for cities and towns across America. The condition of a community's trees and collectively, its urban forests, is usually the first impression a community projects to its visitors. A community's urban forest is an extension of its pride and community spirit. Studies show that trees also enhance community economic stability by attracting businesses and visitors, as people tend to linger and shop longer along tree-lined streets. "Trees and green spaces are an important part of Rockville Centre," commented Mayor Francis X. Murray. "We take great pride in our trees and will continue to do plantings throughout the Village."