SOMA Just Went A Little More Green

The neighborhood is now a little greener, thanks to a dedicated collaboration between SOMA West Community Benefit District board member Stuart Collins and Friends of the Urban Forest (FUF). Together, they have successfully planted 13 brand-new trees across the neighborhood, marking a significant step toward enhancing the area’s urban canopy and environmental sustainability.

A Community Effort for a Greener Future

Founded in 1981, Friends of the Urban Forest is a nonprofit organization committed to revitalizing San Francisco’s tree canopy, fostering community engagement, and addressing global environmental challenges through the simple yet powerful act of planting and maintaining trees. Their efforts have played a pivotal role in greening city streets and enhancing the quality of life for residents. Learn more here.

Stuart Collins has been instrumental in bringing this project to life, working closely with FUF to ensure the trees were planted in strategic locations where they would have the greatest impact. Trees offer numerous benefits to urban environments, including improved air quality, reduced noise pollution, enhanced biodiversity, and an overall boost to mental well-being for residents and visitors alike.

Where the New Trees Have Been Planted

The newly planted trees are spread across several key locations in SOMA, reinforcing the neighborhood’s commitment to sustainability and beautification. These locations include:

• 1521 Howard St.
• 1480 Folsom St.
• 1545 Harrison St.
• 428 11th St.
• 16 Sherman St. (6 trees planted)
• 241 10th St. (2 trees planted)
• 1070 Bryant St.

Each tree contributes to a growing green network, helping to combat urban heat, provide shade, and create a more inviting streetscape. The repeated plantings along Sherman Street and 10th Street are particularly exciting, as they help transform these blocks into lush, tree-lined corridors.

The Beginning of a Larger Initiative

While these 13 trees are an exciting addition, they are just the start of a broader initiative to enhance SOMA’s green spaces. As more community members get involved and additional partnerships are formed, we anticipate further plantings that will continue to improve the neighborhood’s environmental resilience.

A BIG SOMA SHOUT OUT goes out to Stuart Collins, Friends of the Urban Forest, and everyone involved in making this project a reality. If you're interested in contributing to future tree plantings or learning more about how you can support the urban canopy in SOMA, stay tuned for upcoming events and volunteer opportunities!

Let’s continue to work together to make SOMA a greener, healthier, and more vibrant place for all.