One of Forsyth County's largest parks got a touchup this week, and it didn't cost taxpayers a thing.

Staff planted 83 trees at Central Park with money that came from the county's tree replacement fund, which was established in the late 1990s.

Jodi Gardner, a spokeswoman for the county, said nearly all developers must comply with an ordinance by replacing trees and providing on-site landscaping. If unable to bring a site into compliance, they can pay into the fund.

Central Park was the first to benefit from the fund as workers planted 38 red maples, 28 zelkovas and 17 willow oaks on the park grounds.

Parks Maintenance Manager Billy White said the trees will add beauty to the 85-acre site.

"During the summer they will provide shade, and when fall comes the changing colors will be a plus," White said.
County Arborist Greg Wallace agreed.

"They will certainly add something to the park," he said. "This project really illustrates the tree replacement fund dollars at work ... This is a project that members of the tree commission and county staff thought was very worthy."

Jerry Kinsey, director of parks and recreation, said the trees will help fulfill part of Central Park's original plan.

"Trees in this parking area were part of the original landscaping design, but had to be removed from the project due to budgetary restraints," Kinsey said. "So needless to say, we are very excited about the addition of these trees."