Fundraising has begun to help spruce up East Nashville's "front door."

Rediscover East! is working to gather about $11,500 needed for the interstate beautification project. And some of the 450 trees should start being planted by December.

"We've been busy — real busy," said Carol Norton, who's helping the gateway project grow.

The Davidson County Sheriff's Office will plant the trees at interstate intersections of James Robertson Parkway, Woodland Street and Shelby Street.

"We will not be doing the whole thing this year, but in phases, to give us time to raise the rest of the money," Norton said.

The scattered plantings also give the Tennessee Department of Transportation enough time to get the planting schedule together.

Metro Councilman Mike Jameson, who has been talking with TDOT for two years, said the trees should cost about $8,500 plus money for maintenance. Having TDOT do the necessary twice-a-month watering could run about $3,000.

For $45 to $105, residents can choose from eight trees.

"This is the chance for people to buy a tree that's going to be there for a generation or more," Jameson said. "We all know the interstate's not going anywhere. So there's a pretty good bet the oak tree you plant will be the oak tree you drive by with your grandchildren."

Marissa DeCuir covers East Nashville and can be reached at mdecuir@tennessean.com or 615-259-8203