Tree planting aims to increase safety along M-53 roadway in Washington Township

On Friday, September 25 Green Macomb led local volunteers in planting 46 trees as part of a public safety effort in Washington Township. The trees were planted along the west side of M-53, behind Abraham Drive, and will serve as a safety barrier from the roadway. The effort was inspired by a car accident in 2024, which occurred as a driver was traveling south on M-53 just north of 26 Mile Road.

"The driver became airborne, flew off the highway through three backyards, and landed in a tree off the deck of the fourth home. Luckily no one was injured, but given the number of children residing in the four homes on Abraham Drive, it could have been worse," said Washington Township Clerk Audrey Brown. "We worked with MDOT and sought solutions, including guardrails and stop sticks, but these proved too costly. Kayla Mauldin of Spalding De Decker, who assists with Township grants, informed me about grant opportunities through Green Macomb. We applied for and received a grant to plant 46 trees to serve as a safety barrier."

Green Macomb is an initiative of Macomb County Planning and Economic Development (MCPED). Operating for more than a decade, the program aims to double tree canopy in Macomb County. Currently Macomb's tree cover is 26 percent, which falls short of the USDA recommendation of a 40 percent cover or better in urban areas. However, along with residents increasing tree plantings on their properties, promotion and education will help the county reach that goal.

"For more than 10 years Macomb County has been leading the way when it comes to increasing tree canopy in our 27 municipalities," said Gerard Santoro, program director for parks and natural resources, MCPED. "But we know there's more work to be done and we're grateful for the support of countless partners who are helping us make a difference in the lives of our residents.

The tree planting in Washington Township is an example of that partnership and demonstrates how tree canopy can provide more than just beauty and shade.

"I am grateful to have helped the residents of Abraham Drive, in the Washington Woods sub, add a traffic safety barrier from M53, by planting 46 large trees," Brown said. "Many thanks to Green Macomb, the Washington Township DPW, Washington Woods volunteers, Spalding DeDecker and MDOT. This project took over a year and half to accomplish, but I am thrilled to have the 46 trees in place. Thank you also to Ray Wiegand's Nursery for the large, healthy trees."

"On behalf of Washington Township, I want to thank our planner, Kayla Mauldin, for working with Green Macomb to secure this important tree-planting grant," said Washington Township Supervisor Sebastian "Sam" Previti. "This project is a great example of how partnerships can improve safety, protect our neighborhoods, and continue to enhance the quality of life in our community."

More information on green canopy in Macomb County can be found via the Green Macomb website.

Gerard Santoro
586-469-5285
[email protected]