Atlantic City Celebrates Arbor Day with Community Tree Planting and Youth Engagement
05/03/2025
Atlantic City continues to lead by example in building a greener, more connected community. On May 3, the City proudly hosted a vibrant Arbor Day celebration, bringing together students, city departments, and local organizations to plant new life—and new hope—into the heart of the Midtown neighborhood.
Held outside the Atlantic City Police Athletic League (PAL) Building, the event was more than a tree planting—it was a demonstration of teamwork, environmental responsibility, and civic pride.
Growing Together for a Greener Future
Students from New York Avenue School joined forces with the Planning & Development Department, Shade Tree Committee, Public Works Department, Midtown Atlantic City CDC, and Atlantic City PAL to plant four trees that now line the building’s exterior. These trees are not only symbols of sustainability—they are living investments in the health, beauty, and vitality of Atlantic City’s neighborhoods.
“Our young people are the future stewards of this city,” said Mayor Marty Small, Sr. “When we bring students and the community together to plant trees, we’re doing more than greening the streets—we’re planting the seeds of pride, responsibility, and unity.”
Education Meets Action
The Arbor Day celebration provided students with a hands-on lesson in environmental science, urban beautification, and the impact of community-driven change. It was a clear reminder that even small actions can make a big difference, especially when taken together.
The event also spotlighted the power of cross-sector collaboration, showing how schools, city agencies, and nonprofit partners can come together to improve shared public spaces and create a more livable city.
A Lasting Impact on Midtown
The newly planted trees will provide shade, improved air quality, and a cooling effect in the years to come—contributing to a healthier and more welcoming Midtown. They also reflect the city’s broader commitment to sustainable urban development, where nature and neighborhoods thrive side by side.
Residents and city leaders praised the initiative as a successful model for grassroots action and public engagement—highlighting how Atlantic City continues to build momentum around green initiatives.
“We’re not just talking about change—we’re making it visible, one tree at a time,” said Mayor Small.
Under Mayor Marty Small’s leadership, Atlantic City is investing in the future—with clean air, strong partnerships, and a commitment to leaving the city better for the next generation.
