Project Crossroads

Project Crossroads was an initiative that sprung out of our Planting for Change program, with the goal to create more schoolyard mini climate change labs to specifically support urban reforestation in collaboration with the Bramalea Sustainable Neighbourhood Action Program (SNAP) underway at the time in Brampton’s E, F and K sections.  But, just as the program was kicking off, the COVID-19 pandemic hit and schoolyard plantings were off the table so we adapted, targeting instead community sites that were located in low tree canopy areas with high heat vulnerability and where many residents were also facing unmet needs and experiencing worsened conditions as a result of the pandemic.

ACER also developed a new planting protocol specifically adapted to meet pandemic restrictions, with testing completed in collaboration with Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) and City of Brampton Parks and Forestry.

In all, five community tree planting events were held (from October to November 2020) at three locations in the Knightsbridge area of Bramalea with 93 trees and 60 shrubs planted by over 70 volunteers drawn from local schools, faith groups, and community organizations. In addition to increasing the urban tree canopy, other successes in the area included enhancing the health and well being of the community and bringing together people outdoors in a safe way during the difficult times of the early pandemic.

ACER is currently exploring future opportunities to replicate this initiative in other regions/SNAP areas. 

       TD Green Space Program