Good Neighbors: The Tree and Sidewalk Guru of Los Angeles Makes Sure Gray and Green Live Together in Perfect Harmony

In this article the author describes management and development issues associated with trees and sidewalks in urban and suburban settings, particularly as are found in Los Angeles, California. A healthy urban plan for trees provides a number of benefits, the author explains, including reducing noise levels, cooling nearby housing and lawns, improving water quality, boosting property value, and, lastly, improving the aesthetic ambiance of the urban setting. One problem with negotiating some of the conflicts that arise between trees and sidewalks is poor planning. This can lead to a mutually destructive relationship between the two features, and particularly when tree roots cause sidewalks and curbs to crack and buckle. The author recommends proper spacing, meandering or curving sidewalks, reduced sidewalks, rubber sidewalks, and ramped sidewalks towards such ends. Tree and sidewalk evaluation forms are important for maintenance as well, ensuring that extant features are properly maintained and only removed or destroyed when absolutely necessary.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/oclc/1606878
• Authors:
  • Spinner, Jenni
• Publication Date: 2007-7

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: Print
• Features: Photos;
• Pagination: pp 46-48
• Serial:
  • Public Works
  • Volume: 138
  • Issue Number: 8
  • Publisher: Hanley Wood
  • ISSN: 0033-3840
  • Serial URL: http://www.pwmag.com

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Curbs; Pavement cracking; Pavements; Roots; Sidewalks; Trees
• Geographic Terms: Los Angeles (California)
• Subject Areas: Design; Highways; Pavements; I22: Design of Pavements, Railways and Guideways;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01054706
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: UC Berkeley Transportation Library
• Files: BTRIS, TRIS
• Created Date: Jul 30 2007 4:32PM