Springfield, MA -- (SBWIRE) -- 10/09/2014 -- The newest class of police officers in Springfield, Massachusetts, who will receive their badges later this month, will be working to regreen two inner-city parks, as well as planting new trees in front of several neighborhood residences in an effort to help regreen the city. Hennessy Park and Adams Playground in the Mason Square and Upper Hill Neighborhoods of Springfield will be the site of the park clean-up and tree planting on Saturday, October 11th. Starting at 9:00 AM, 29 graduating recruits will begin planting new Sweetgum, Ginko, and flowering trees at both parks, as well as in front of residences on Kenyon Street. The work is expected to continue into early afternoon.

Springfield City Forester Edward P. Casey and Mayor Domenic Sarno's Office have worked with Regreen Springfield and the recruits to organize the effort. "This project is a great opportunity for the new officers to really help restore tree canopy in an area of the city that has seen its urban forest take its share of weather impacts over recent years", said Mr. Casey. This project, which represents a gift to the city by the graduating officers, will provide an "opportunity for the officers to interact and work closely with neighborhood residents in both neighborhoods", he added. Eighteen large stature trees will be planted, which will make an immediate impact to the environmental integrity of the parks and streetscape settings. All of the newly planted trees were chosen based on their size, form and visual interest, and are all tolerant of tough urban conditions.

Neighborhood residents are invited to come support the effort at both locations, and they are asked to join the officers and dignitaries in a ceremonial dedication at 10:00 AM at Hennessey Park. Mayor Domenic Sarno is expected to attend the event. Adams Playground is located on Wilbraham Road, near Dearborn Street, and Hennessy Park is at the intersection of Oak Grove Avenue and Kenyon Street.