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June 6, 1995 <br /> NEIGHBORWOODS PROGRAM <br /> Since 1992 the City has implemented the NeighborWoods program. This program offers new <br /> street trees for neighbors to plant and maintain. The NeighborWoods program through <br /> volunteers has planted over 2,000 trees. This program brings together . the neighbors in an <br /> effort to improve the neighborhood through the planting of street trees. There is a <br /> tremendous value in revitalizing neighborhoods through the planting of trees. <br /> This nationally recognized program improves the environment and the quality of life for the <br /> community. The quality of these neighborhoods has improved and future generations will be <br /> able to continue to enjoy the beauty and grace of these trees. In addition, the quality of life <br /> in the neighborhood improves through increased interaction and communication. With this <br /> program, neighbors get a chance to meet their neighbors, get to know them and share in a <br /> common effort to improve their neighborhood. This program brings to the community <br /> cohesiveness and neighborhood pride that forms the foundation for a better society. <br /> There are many ways this program reduces the cost of government. Instead of contract <br /> planting and establishment maintenance of these trees, NeighborWoods involves the <br /> community and volunteers in the planting and establishment maintenance of the trees. There <br /> is a $150.00 savings per tree for planting and maintenance. The first three years of the <br /> program realized an estimated saving of $300,000. In addition there will be a long term <br /> reduction in maintenance cost since the community has a greater sense of ownership for their <br /> trees. This saving is difficult to extrapolate but with more responsibility comes a more active <br /> involvement in the care and maintenance of the trees. <br /> The quality of municipal services has improved through the implementation of the <br /> NeighborWoods program. The City is perceived as an active, responsible partner in the <br /> revitalization of older neighborhoods and in assuring the quality of new neighborhoods. With <br /> this program the City reaches out to individuals and enlists their support in a collective effort <br /> to make Eugene a better place to live and work. <br /> • <br />