Urban & Community Forestry Program
Planting, Preservation, and Invasive Control Grant

Grant Enhances SR 84 Walking Corridor

The City’s Landscaping Department recently applied for and was awarded a grant through the Urban and Community Forestry Program’s Planting, Preservation, and Invasive Control initiative. The grant, totaling $15,093.55, funded the installation of 66 new trees along a key pedestrian corridor in Weston.

The tree installation includes a diverse mix of species selected for shade, resilience, and environmental benefit. Twenty three Live Oak trees (Quercus virginiana) and eighteen False Tamarind trees (Lysiloma latisiliquum), both native species, were planted alongside twenty five Royal Poinciana trees (Delonix regia), a non native ornamental species. Two of the selected species are native to Florida, with one included on the Florida Friendly Plant list.

The project is located along the sidewalk on the south side of East State Road 84 between Glades Parkway and Indian Trace. The planting area spans approximately 1,700 linear feet, extending from the yellow double gate heading west to the property line of the San Messina community. This sidewalk is heavily used by residents and will ultimately connect with the Weston North Walking Nature Trail project.

Due to full sun exposure, the corridor lacked adequate shade for pedestrians. The new tree canopy will significantly improve comfort and usability for walkers while enhancing the overall appearance of the area.

Work began on November 20, 2025, and was completed on November 26, 2025. All planting followed and surpassed all industry standards. An irrigation bubbler system was installed for all 66 trees and connected to a mainline on the berm to ensure long term health and sustainability. After establishment of the trees this year, the bubbler system will be modified into a turf irrigation system, using lake water keeping the swale and tree area green throughout the years.  Media Release

But wait, there's more...

This relatively small project is going to deliver additional long-term benefits.

The new trees will provide shade and visual appeal for residents using the walking path but also complement ongoing work on the Weston North Walking Trail currently under construction along SR 84, from the Bonaventure Development District Canal nearly to Indian Trace. Once completed, the trail network will offer a scenic and largely continuous shaded route from Saddle Club Road and the BDD Canal all the way to Glades Road, transforming previously underutilized space into miles of recreational and exercise opportunities. 

In addition to improving walkability, the planting of native trees supports the City’s efforts to achieve Certification as a Community Wildlife Habitat through the National Wildlife Federation. This project will be included as part of the City’s certification submittals and outreach efforts.

Residents are encouraged to also participate by registering their own yards and gardens to help Weston reach this important environmental milestone. Information on how to get involved is available through the certification link above.