Working together
to make an impact.
Waiting for the bus shouldn't feel like standing on a heat island. That’s why We Plant it Forward is teaming up with Raleigh Parks to transform our local transit stops into cooler, greener, and more inviting spaces.
Support for this project comes from the Rotary Club of Raleigh. We’re grateful for their dedication to supporting tree planting through their America 250 Oak City Tree Campaign celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary.
Why trees at bus stops?
In an time of rising temperatures, urban infrastructure needs nature-based solutions. Our initiative focuses on three core impacts:
Heat mitigation: Trees can lower surface temperatures by up to 20°F to 45°F compared to unshaded pavement, protecting transit users from extreme heat.
Air quality: Native trees act as natural filters, trapping pollutants and dust from busy roadways.
Commuter comfort: A green canopy reduces stress and creates a better experience for those who rely on Raleigh’s public transit.
Conecte con nosotros
Manténgase conectado y ¡únete a la conversación! Síganos en las redes sociales para conocer las últimas actualizaciones, próximos eventos, oportunidades de voluntariado e historias inspiradoras de nuestra comunidad.
How we make
it happen
This project is rooted in collaboration, community, and care. By combining smart site selection, native tree planting, and advocacy, we’re building something that will benefit Raleigh for generations to come.
Our project strategy:
Site selection: We’re working with City of Raleigh urban forester, arborist, and transit planners to identify stops with high ridership and low existing shade.
Native species: We’re selecting hardy, drought-tolerant native trees that thrive in North Carolina's climate and support local pollinators.
Long-term care: In partnership with city arborists and local volunteers, we’re ensuring these saplings receive the water and care they need to reach maturity.
Celebration: America is known for its beautiful landscapes. What’s a better way to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary than by planting trees?
Advocacy: By transforming these bus stops from heat islands to green oases, we show that trees as critical infrastructure for the health and well being of all Raleigh residents.
No se pierda nuestro próximo evento
Visite We Plant it Forwardcalendario en línea para estar al día de los próximos eventos y oportunidades de voluntariado en la comunidad, como plantaciones de árboles, sorteos de árboles y mucho más.
What we’re planting
Below you’ll find the transit stops selected for planting, along with the native tree species chosen for each site. Every tree has been carefully selected for resilience, long-term growth, and its ability to provide shade and ecological benefit in Raleigh’s urban environment.
Want to learn more about the trees we’re planting? Each tree is linked to an educational resource hosted by NC State University with in-depth information about the species!
Our planting sites:
Fayetteville St at Prospect (2 trees)
Shumard Oak (Quercus shumardii)↗S Saunders and Prospect - Southeast corner (2 trees)
Black gum (Nyssa sylvatica)↗S Saunders and Prospect - Southwest corner (2 trees)
Willow Oak (Quercus phellos)↗Garner Rd at Warehouse Dr - Northbound (1 tree)
White Oak (Quercus alba)↗Rush St./Cross Link Rd at Garner Rd (2 trees)
Willow Oak (Quercus phellos)↗
“By planting a tree at a bus stop, we’re investing in equity, health, and the environment at the same time. It’s a simple solution with a lifetime of benefits for our community.”
- The We Plant it Forward team
Get involved
You can help us grow Raleigh’s canopy! Whether you want to get your hands dirty at a planting event or help fund the next sapling, there’s a place for you in this project.
Want to join us for our next community planting today? Get in touch with our team!
Volunteer
Every dollar goes toward the purchase, planting, and care of transit-side trees!
Donar
Follow us on social media to see our progress across the city!
Share
Together, we’re planting the future of Raleigh—one bus stop at a time.
Haz un donativo hoy
Su apoyo nos ayuda a a cumplir nuestra misión restaurar y preservar nuestro entorno natural para las generaciones futuras mediante actividades prácticas, educación medioambiental y compromiso con la comunidad, aportando armonía a todas las formas de vida.