Once excavation was complete, the focus shifted to creating an environment that would allow these trees to thrive for decades to come.

One of the most important aspects of this project was the installation of structural soil—a specialized growing medium designed specifically for urban tree planting applications. Unlike a traditional tree planting project that may rely solely on topsoil or loam, these planting sites were constructed using a carefully blended mixture of materials engineered to support both healthy root growth and the demands of a downtown environment.

The structural soil used throughout this project consisted of several key components, including topsoil, organic compost, biochar, and 7-inch clean crushed stone. Together, these materials create a growing environment that provides trees with access to nutrients, moisture, and oxygen while also maintaining the structural stability necessary beneath heavily trafficked urban surfaces.

Preparing this material was a significant undertaking in itself. Prior to construction, the Town of Randolph and our crews worked together to transport and stockpile all necessary materials at our Timber Pros Tree Works facility. From there, the structural soil was carefully mixed and blended to ensure consistency across every planting site before being transported into downtown Randolph for installation.

Once the structural soil was placed within the excavated planting areas, additional layers were installed to complete the site design. A layer of 1¼-inch clean crushed stone was placed above the structural soil, followed by the installation of geocell mats. These geocell systems help stabilize the surface while distributing loads and protecting the soil structure beneath.

The final surface layer consisted of pea stone, providing a clean and attractive finish while still allowing water to infiltrate into the soil below. Each site was then completed with a cobblestone border around the perimeter, creating a finished appearance that complements Randolph's downtown character and helps define each planting area within the surrounding streetscape.

While much of this work remains hidden below the surface, it represents one of the most critical investments in the long-term success of the project. The true measure of these planting sites will not be how they look immediately after installation, but how well they support healthy, thriving trees ten, twenty, and even fifty years from now.

By combining thoughtful design, specialized materials, and careful construction practices, these planting sites provide a strong foundation for the next generation of Randolph's urban forest.