This also helps minimize damage to trees and property caused by wind and ice. Additionally, as a result of this program, the street lights in these areas are more effective in providing for safety at night. The Urban Forestry Section is responsible for mowing much of the public property in Decatur. Presently, this Section is responsible for about 300 acres, which includes Central Park in downtown Decatur. This is the only park property maintained by the City of Decatur.
All property is mown per an established schedule.
Another program conducted by the City is the landscaping of almost one hundred sites on major traffic arteries throughout the City. Prior to the creation of this Section in 1990, the City did no landscaping other than Central Park and one flower bed at the Civic Center . This program is done with one full-time employee and several contractors during the summer months. This operation involves one full-time employee and two to three temporary employees from two to three months per year. Additionally, Community Development Block Grant Funds have been made available to plant up to 80 trees per year in these same areas.