Area Trimming: Trimming Trees Universally
Area Trimming
The Department of Streets and Sanitation (DSS) redesigned its approach to its tree-trimming services to address gaps and racial disparities. By looking at data and engaging with community in an effort to improve its tree-trimming services, DSS acknowledged communities most impacted or with least access to tree trimming services. Therefore, DSS shifted to a targeted universal approach, Area Trimming – shifting from a reactive response to a proactive response. Instead of waiting to respond to 311 complaints, DSS personnel proactively inspected all trees and provided trimming, if need be, to improve the overall health of trees.
Shifting from 311 to area tree trimming resulted in:
An Efficient and Equitable Process
- Tree trimming crews can now schedule and trim all trees in one geographical area, covering tree trimming requests universally and more efficiently.
- Tree trimming improved by 352% between April 2022-June 2022 and April 2023-June 2023
Effective Service for ALL Communities
- By exploring a new approach (area trimming),DSS addressed the needs of not only those who were left behind but all residents.
Below are additional links to learn more about this initiative or engaging materials you can share with your community. For example, if you are part of an education institution, use our case study one pagers to share with your peers or students.
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DSS was one of our FY24 Equity Report spotlights