Queens, NY – Following ongoing concerns from the community, Assemblywoman Nily Rozic (D,WF – Fresh Meadows) and Assemblyman David Weprin (D – Fresh Meadows) are calling on the city Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) to inspect the trees on the Union Turnpike median between Francis Lewis Boulevard and Main Street.

“Although they may be a small part of our blueprint, trees in our neighborhood should not be neglected,” said Assemblywoman Rozic. “I urge the Department of Parks and Recreation to expedite inspections and replace the damaged trees.”

“I am glad to be partnering with my fellow colleague in the Assembly and neighboring member here in Queens to advocate for the better care and attention of trees along Union Turnpike,” said Assemblyman Weprin. “Our trees and forestry here in Northeast Queens are characteristic of the great neighborhoods that surround our respective districts.”

The condition of the trees on the Union Turnpike median has been the subject of substantial activism. Various civic associations and community members have been requesting that the trees be given adequate attention and care in an effort to maintain the public space they occupy.

“The Hillcrest Estates Civic Association greatly appreciates the representation given to our community by Assemblymembers Rozic and Weprin. Trees are of tremendous value to a community and the request by our Assemblymembers for the planting of the center median on Union Turnpike will benefit our community greatly,” said Jackie Forrestal, President of the Hillcrest Estates Civic Association. “We thank the Parks Department, too, for the care they give to public spaces within Hillcrest Estates and especially the Forestry Division of the DPR for their efforts to protect, plant, and maintain our street trees.”

“I want to thank Assembly Members Rozic and Weprin for their continued concern for the Fresh Meadows community. I appreciate their care for every issue that impacts local homeowners, from trees to property taxes,” said James Gallagher Jr, Community Board 8 Member and Fresh Meadows Homeowners Civic Association, Incorporated President.