Hartsfield-Jackson marks centennial and Earth Month with community tree planting in College Park

ATLANTA – Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), in collaboration with Aerotropolis Atlanta Alliance, the College Park, BoldImpact ATL, Tree Collective, Boutte Tree, and GreenWorks Ecoscapes, celebrated its 100th anniversary and Earth Month with a community tree-planting event designed to expand green space in surrounding neighborhoods.
In partnership with Airport stakeholders and more than 60 volunteers, ATL planted 34 native trees across key locations in College Park—bringing the total to 108 trees planted to date in honor of its centennial. The initiative, part of ATL’s broader centennial celebration, reinforces the Airport’s commitment to sustainability and community partnership. The April 17 event brought together partners, employees, and volunteers for a morning of hands-on planting, education, and community engagement.
“This initiative reflects our commitment to being not only the world’s busiest airport, but also a responsible community partner,” said Dr. Quinta Warren, Senior Director of Sustainability at ATL. “By investing in green infrastructure and native landscapes, we are helping to build a more sustainable future for the communities we serve.”
At The Ivy Apartments (2135 Godby Road), crews planted 34 trees along with 20 perennial plants and shrubs. Species included Witch Hazel, Blackgum, American Plum, Pawpaw, Shumard Oak, and Chickasaw Plum—all native to Georgia and selected for their environmental and ecological benefits.
In nearby public spaces, 12 trees were installed, including six at a local bus stop and six along Godby and Southampton roads. These plantings featured a variety of native species such as Blackgum, Pawpaw, Shumard Oak, American Plum, and Chickasaw Plum, enhancing both the visual landscape and environmental health of the corridor.
Aerotropolis Atlanta Alliance President Shannon James applauded the initiatives to invest in long-term sustainability in the Airport footprint. “Our Aerotropolis communities are becoming more conscientious about sustainability through these collaborative efforts led by our partners at Hartsfield-Jackson,” James said. “This critical initiative to plant trees in an underserved and under-resourced area of College Park creates shade today and supports a more sustainable, eco-friendly environment for future generations.”
