Southlake residents and businesses have planted more than 1,600 trees toward the city's goal of 2,026 by year's end, Mayor Shawn McCaskill said in a Facebook post on Nov. 1.
The milestone leaves roughly 400 trees to go with two months remaining in 2026.
The "2,026 Trees in 2026" initiative ties to Southlake's 70th anniversary. The city launched the effort to add shade, clean air and green space across parks, public areas and residential yards, according to the initiative's page on ExperienceSouthlakeTexas.com. Trees are being planted through community planting days, tree sales, sponsorships and individual yard plantings.
McCaskill shared the update through the city's SLK City Spotlight video series in honor of Texas Arbor Day, My Southlake News reported Nov. 2. Residents, volunteers, community partners and city staff have all contributed to the count.
The initiative has drawn participation throughout the year. In March, Mayor Pro Tem Randy Williamson helped celebrate the planting of a Liberty Tree in Bicentennial Park. The Shumard red oak was donated by the Captain Molly Corbin Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, honoring both America's upcoming 250th anniversary and Southlake's 70th birthday, according to the City of Southlake's Instagram account.
Free tree saplings were also distributed at the Celebrate Southlake event on Sept. 12 in Southlake Town Square, where the city marked its anniversary with live music, food trucks and a light show projected onto Southlake Town Hall.
The initiative is open to individuals, families, schools, businesses and community groups. Residents can purchase trees organized by pickup month, and planting assistance is available for those 55 and older. Sponsorship levels start at $20,000 for the Legacy Canopy tier.
The city says more opportunities to participate remain before the year ends. Residents can visit ExperienceSouthlakeTexas.com to track progress on the initiative's interactive map and find ways to help close the gap.
