Greening the Gateway Cities Implementation Grants FY25

Background
The Greening the Gateway Cities Implementation Grant FY25 is a financial assistance program aimed at supporting Gateway City municipalities and non-profit 501(c) organizations in conducting tree planting and related activities. The program is part of the Commonwealth’s commitment to land conservation, tree planting, and parks, designed to enhance urban tree canopy. It is a partnership between the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA), the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) Urban & Community Forestry Program, the Executive Office of Housing & Livable Communities (EOHLC), and the Department of Energy Resources (DOER), along with Gateway Cities and local grassroots organizations.

Work Details
The grant program seeks proposals for financial assistance to conduct tree planting, tree watering, tree maintenance & stewardship, and impervious surface removal in Gateway Cities. Eligible projects must achieve measurable impact on the present and future urban canopy in Gateway Cities, focusing on locations with limited tree canopy, particularly within areas experiencing documented urban heat island effects.

The eligible applicants are Gateway City municipalities and non-profit 501(c)(3) organizations with demonstrated experience in tree planting and stewardship capacity. The eligible projects should aim to strengthen community engagement surrounding tree care and tree planting, achieve plantings that align with the right tree in the right place concept, and articulate how the applicant will ensure watering and related tree stewardship in the first two years.

Period of Performance
The contract period will begin on the date that EEA signs the contract. Contracts issued pursuant to this Bid must expend all approved project costs associated with the approved project on or before June 30, 2025, to be eligible for reimbursement.

Place of Performance
The geographic location(s) where the contract will be performed or where the product(s) will be delivered are within Gateway Cities.