The City of Newport, in partnership with the Cincinnati/Dayton Division of Kroger, the Arbor Day Foundation and Cummins Inc., recently completed a large-scale tree planting initiative at the new West Newport Kroger site.
The project included the installation of several new trees within the Kroger parking lot, along with 44 additional trees planted throughout the surrounding city block. This will transform a previously vacant area into a vibrant, green gateway anchored by one of the region’s newest urban grocery stores.
“Kroger is passionate about building stronger communities and caring for our environment,” said Sara Heyd, communications and public affairs manager for Kroger’s Cincinnati/Dayton Division.
“We were excited to partner with the Arbor Day Foundation, and Cummins Inc. to both celebrate Earth Month and continue our everyday commitment to sustainability,” he said. “The planting of every tree supports our purpose to feed the human spirit, uplift the communities we serve, and build a more sustainable future.”
More than 40 volunteers from Cummins Inc. participated in the planting effort, working alongside city representatives and partners to complete the project in a single morning. Kroger provided breakfast for volunteers, reinforcing the collaborative spirit behind the initiative.
“This project is a great example of what can happen when strong public-private partnerships come together with a shared vision,” said Josh Tunning, municipal specialist at the City of Newport. “Not only are we enhancing the look and feel of West Newport, but we are also investing in environmental benefits for our residents.”
The tree planting is part of the City of Newport’s broader initiative to plant 1,000 new trees in West Newport by 2028, an effort aimed at expanding the city’s tree canopy, improving air quality, and creating more attractive and livable neighborhoods.
“This initiative reflects Newport’s ongoing commitment to leveraging partnerships and outside resources to deliver impactful projects,” added Tunning.
City of Newport