With more than 10,000 downloads in the U.S., i-Tree calculates the environmental and economic benefits of planting trees.
Based on an analysis by i-Tree, a software program developed by the U.S. Forest Service in partnership with Davey Tree company, street tree coverage in Pittsburgh, Pa. confers $2.4 million in environmental and aesthetic value per year to the city.
I-Tree calculates the carbon sequestration potential of each tree planted and the economic benefits of air pollution reduction. Its next version will also be able to analyze how urban forests affect air temperature, ultraviolet ray penetration and bird habitat.
Using i-Tree, the environmental nonprofit Tree Pittsburgh figured out that the city received $3 in benefits for every dollar it invested in urban forestation. In response, the city developed a new master plan to replenish its canopy, which is at half the recommended coverage now.
I-Tree is designed to be usable by anyone and exists in mobile as well as desktop version.
FULL STORY: That tree in the corner may be worth more than your house
What's a Tree Worth?
The U.S. Forest Service has continued to refine the valuable i-Tree software program, which allows cities to calculate the benefits, in dollar figures, of the urban forest.
Measuring the Economic Impact of the Great Allegheny Passage
Small communities once dependent on coal, coke, paper, lumber, and manufacturing now have a 150-mile bike and pedestrian path contributing to the local economy.
New Interchange Planned Along Pennsylvania Turnpike
Local leaders hope the new interchange will invigorate economic development in the area by providing easier access to the turnpike.
The Top Urban Planning Books of 2021
Planetizen's annual list of the top urban planning books of the year is here—maintaining a tradition that dates back to 2002.
The Roadway Expansion Paradox
Motorists want expensive roadway expansions provided that somebody else foots the bill, but when required to pay directly through tolls, the need for more capacity often disappears. What should planners do?
Urban Exodus: Data Don't Support the Popular Pandemic Narrative
Americans fled cities in waves during the pandemic, right? Not to so fast.
Miami Reinstates E-Scooter Program
After abruptly ending its shared e-scooter program last month, Miami is letting the devices return to its streets–with some new rules.
Doubling Down on Bus Rapid Transit in Northern Virginia
Arlington County plans an expansion of the D.C. region's first Bus Rapid Transit line.
Study: At Least 1,500 Unhoused Died on the Streets of L.A. During the Pandemic
New research represents the first detailed picture of death among people experiencing homelessness during the pandemic.
Nelson\Nygaard
BRAILSFORD & DUNLAVEY
Water Replenishment District (WRD)
HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research
HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research
City of San Carlos
HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research
City of Royal Oak, Michigan
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Hand Drawing Master Plans
This course aims to provide an introduction into Urban Design Sketching focused on how to hand draw master plans using a mix of colored markers.
