Cabbagetown Neighborhood Arboretum Celebrates 30 Years of Tree Planting

Trees Atlanta Executive Director Greg Levine to lead a tour of the historic district's urban forest

Mar. 29, 2026 at 5:00pm

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The Atlanta Preservation Center is hosting a guided tree tour of the Cabbagetown neighborhood, highlighting the community's three-decade partnership with Trees Atlanta to increase the urban canopy. Led by Trees Atlanta Executive Director Greg Levine, the tour will explore the seven Neighborhood Arboreta established in the mid-2000s through a collaborative effort between local residents, Trees Atlanta volunteers, and the city.

Why it matters

Cabbagetown is a historic district with a distinct Appalachian culture, and the neighborhood's commitment to expanding its urban forest over the past 30 years has helped preserve its unique identity and environmental sustainability. The tree tour provides an opportunity for the community to celebrate this longstanding partnership and learn more about the diverse tree species that make up Cabbagetown's urban canopy.

The details

Trees Atlanta has been planting hundreds of trees in the Cabbagetown neighborhood every year for the past three decades, including replanting efforts after a tornado struck in 2008. The Cabbagetown community members worked with Trees Atlanta and the city to establish seven Neighborhood Arboreta in the mid-2000s, choosing to feature trees native to the Appalachian region to honor the neighborhood's heritage.

  • Trees Atlanta began planting trees in Cabbagetown 30 years ago.
  • The Cabbagetown Neighborhood Arboreta were established in the mid-2000s.
  • A tornado struck Cabbagetown in July 2008, prompting additional tree planting efforts.

The players

Greg Levine

The Executive Director of Trees Atlanta since 2023, who has been with the organization since 1995 and has been hands-on in all facets of programming, as well as organizing partners, communities, and volunteers.

Trees Atlanta

A nonprofit organization that has been planting trees and expanding the urban canopy in the Cabbagetown neighborhood for the past 30 years.

Cabbagetown Community

The residents of the historic Cabbagetown neighborhood, who have been strong supporters of increasing the neighborhood's tree canopy coverage.

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What’s next

The tree tour is part of the Atlanta Preservation Center's annual Phoenix Flies event, which celebrates the city's historic neighborhoods and architecture. After the Cabbagetown tour, attendees can explore other tree-focused events and activities throughout the city.

The takeaway

The Cabbagetown Neighborhood Arboretum is a testament to the power of community-driven urban forestry initiatives. By partnering with Trees Atlanta over the past three decades, the Cabbagetown neighborhood has not only preserved its unique Appalachian character, but also enhanced the environmental sustainability and livability of the area for residents and visitors alike.