Bloomington, Indiana – Bloomington has officially launched a new initiative aimed at supporting homeowners with hazardous trees on their property. The Tree Assistance Program (TAP), introduced by the city’s Parks and Recreation Department, will help qualifying residents by offering services to remove or prune dangerous trees and plant new ones. This program not only seeks to improve safety but also contributes to the city’s green efforts, enhancing its tree canopy which provides shade, improves wildlife habitats, controls erosion, and offers various climate benefits.
The program is designed to assist homeowners who meet specific qualifications. To participate, applicants must be the owners of the property where the work is to be done, and the property must be located within Bloomington’s city limits. Income eligibility is determined based on the area median income. For single-income households, the annual income must be less than $63,000, and for multiple-income households, the combined income must be under $72,300.
Applications for the program are now being accepted, with a deadline of October 1. Applicants are required to provide proof of income when submitting their requests. Once submitted, a review committee made up of staff from various city departments—including Housing & Neighborhood Development, Planning & Transportation, Economic & Sustainable Development, and Parks and Recreation—will assess and prioritize the requests. The Bloomington Tree Commission will also have a representative involved in the review process. Following approval, all tree removal, pruning, and planting projects will be contracted and scheduled for completion in the spring of 2026.
The approval of the Tree Assistance Program by the Board of Park Commissioners on July 17 marked a significant step forward in addressing both safety concerns and environmental goals. The initiative is part of the city’s broader commitment to enhancing its urban forest, which plays a vital role in improving the quality of life for residents.
“This program helps homeowners take action on hazardous trees that might pose a risk to their property or safety,” said Urban Forester Haskell Smith. “It’s a win for both the residents and the environment, contributing to a greener, safer Bloomington.”
Residents interested in applying for the Tree Assistance Program can find additional details and the application form on the official website at bton.in/TAP or by reaching out directly to Urban Forester Haskell Smith via email at [email protected]. The program aims to not only address immediate concerns related to hazardous trees but also to ensure that Bloomington continues to foster a thriving and sustainable tree canopy for years to come.
With the deadline approaching, homeowners who believe they meet the criteria for the program are encouraged to apply promptly. This initiative is a valuable opportunity for those in need of tree care and will play a pivotal role in ensuring Bloomington remains a beautiful and safe city.
