On May 23, BNSF employees will join the Arbor Day Foundation and the Downtown Spokane Partnership to green the community’s downtown area.
The planting sites are a group of six raised planters built as a result of the 1974 World’s Fair. Riverfront Park is undergoing the most significant renovation in its history right now, and pedestrians who walk from downtown into the park will be able to enjoy the upgrade of the plantings at this location that match what is occurring at the Park.
Karen Fritz of the Downtown Spokane Partnership said, “We united forces in early 2019 with the Spokane Community College landscape department to revitalize six planters in downtown Spokane. When we were offered the opportunity to work with the Arbor Day Foundation and BNSF to help achieve this goal, an incredible partnership was formed. Through the generosity of BNSF and the Arbor Day Foundation, and volunteers from BNSF and SCC, we are thrilled to create a fantastic destination for citizens and visitors alike.”
“The mission of the BNSF Railway Foundation is to support and help improve the quality of life for thousands of communities across the 28 states where BNSF operates,” said Zak Andersen, president of the BNSF Railway Foundation. “By partnering with the Arbor Day Foundation, we are able to fulfill this mission by enriching green spaces throughout Washington state. These tree plantings will help provide a more sustainable community for future generations.”
About the Arbor Day Foundation
Founded in 1972, the Arbor Day Foundation has grown to become the largest nonprofit membership organization dedicated to planting trees, with more than one million members, supporters, and valued partners. Their vision is to help others understand and use trees as a solution to many of the global issues we face today, including air quality, water quality, climate change, deforestation, poverty and hunger. As one of the world’s largest operating conservation foundations, the Arbor Day Foundation educates and engages stakeholders and communities across the globe to involve themselves in its mission of planting, nurturing and celebrating trees. More information is available at arborday.org.
About BNSF
BNSF Railway is one of North America’s leading freight transportation companies. BNSF operates approximately 32,500 route miles of track in 28 states and also operates in three Canadian provinces. BNSF is one of the top transporters of consumer goods, grain and agricultural products, low-sulfur coal, and industrial goods such as petroleum, chemicals, housing materials, food and beverages. BNSF’s shipments help feed, clothe, supply and power American homes and businesses every day. BNSF and its employees have developed one of the most technologically advanced and efficient railroads in the industry. We work continuously to improve the value of the safety, service, energy and environmental benefits we provide to our customers and the communities we serve.
About Downtown Spokane
The DSP is a private, non-profit membership organization that serves as Spokane’s central city advocate and service provider, dedicated to enhancing the quality and vitality of Downtown Spokane as the basis for a healthy region. The DSP accomplishes its mission through advocating for public policies, business and project development, quality planning, physical improvement projects, public safety, beautification, and marketing programs that ensure downtown’s continued success.