Gulf Coast Community Foundation Recently Awarded a $100,000 Matching Grant to Venice Area Beautification, Inc.

The VABI was awarded $100,000 to support the creation of an Urban Forest along the Intracoastal Waterway in Venice.

The nearly two-mile forested greenway will provide habitat in which birds, butterflies, and wildlife will thrive and for residents and visitors to enjoy. Gulf Coast’s support raises the visibility of this transformative community conservation project. All gifts will be matched dollar for dollar up to $100,000, helping VABI to complete the first phase of the dynamic initiative.

“This grant is a catalyst,” said Greg Vine, a longtime VABI volunteer and the Urban Forest project chair. “We have an ambitious vision relying on fundraising, in-kind gifts, and sweat equity. With broad community support, we will create the Urban Forest, tree by tree.” Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast has partnered with VABI to build resources and public awareness for the project. (To learn more and donate, go here.)

The Urban Forest began several years ago as a grassroots-led vision to reforest the former CSX railway corridor through the heart of Venice. So far, more than 600 trees of 32 species and understory plants have been planted as part of Phase One. Two more phases are envisioned after the current one is finished later this year.

When the project is completed, the 33-acre Venice Urban Forest will stretch from the historic Venice Train Depot to Center Road and provide a beautiful woodland trail for pedestrians parallel to the Venetian Waterway Park. All native trees and shrubs are being planted, so that the forest provides habitat specifically for migratory songbirds and native wildlife. The forest also will enhance stormwater treatment and provide an environmental buffer between the Intracoastal Waterway and the adjacent industrial area