Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh and Parks Recreation and Youth Programs Commissioner Syeisha Byrd have announced the beginning of phase one of the James Pass Arboretum Improvement Plan. The work is set to commence in the latter half of July, focusing on enhancing public safety, accessibility, and visitor experience at the westside botanical garden.
The improvement plan follows an extensive public engagement process that included six community meetings. The Department of Parks Recreation and Youth Program’s Forestry Division will remove over 50 trees deemed invasive, structurally unsound, dead, or nearing the end of their lifespan. Additionally, more than 40 other trees will be pruned to remove deadwood and improve their structure, health, and resilience against storms.
“The Pass Arboretum is a special place that is important to the Westside and a valuable resource for people across the city,” stated Mayor Walsh. “Like any park or natural space, it needs careful attention and care so it can thrive. The improvement plan has been developed with input from neighbors and other people who care deeply about the site. I appreciate their support and am glad to see the work getting underway.”
“Our Forestry Division has done amazing work caring for and expanding Syracuse’s urban forest. The Pass Arboretum is our ‘museum of trees’ that educate and inspire everyone – especially our young people – to appreciate and care for our environment. There is great work beginning at the Arboretum and we are honored to prepare it for people today and for generations to come,” commented Commissioner Byrd.
Phase one also includes upgrading the walking trail loop around the site by paving walkways to enhance accessibility, safety, and maintenance. Crews will replace a chain link fence on the park’s western side with an ornamental fence matching others around the site. Existing trees will be mulched with edged perimeters, while all trees will be labeled to enrich educational experiences at the park.
Future phases scheduled over several years include refreshing existing gardens with native plants, reintroducing shrubs into the arboretum, and adding an ADA accessible path to its upper reach. This project receives funding through the City of Syracuse Parks Capital Improvement plan.
2025 marks Pass Arboretum’s 100th anniversary. The Parks Department plans to celebrate this milestone during its annual Arbor Day Celebration on October 9. A community event in fall 2025 will peak this year’s improvements by planting at least 70 trees.
