Boulevard Tree Selection

Boulevard Tree Selection - Best Practice

Status: Complete
Report Date: 08/13/2024

Summary:

Boulevards are the open space along a roadway, located just behind the curb. They provide snow storage space for roads and sidewalks, a place for rain and runoff to soak into the ground, and attractive green space in our city neighborhoods. Street trees, or trees planted in the boulevard along a roadway, are valuable environmental infrastructure as they save energy and lower temperatures, reduce greenhouse gases, reduce stormwater runoff, and improve aesthetics. However, local officials face challenges in creating a leafy boulevard. Boulevards are often a difficult location to plant trees because of the limited space, utility conflicts, and salt residue from winter maintenance among other factors. Local governments need thoughtful planning to ensure that the right tree is planted in the right place and with the right maintenance. Local residents and business owners may also be concerned about who is responsible for the cost, care and maintenance of trees planted in the boulevard. City staff and elected officials must seek communication resources to convey the many positive attributes of planting diverse tree species and solicit participation in care of young trees. This guide and its attached appendices recommend best practices for planting and caring for street trees, suggests tree species with a higher survival rate, and offer some communication suggestions for encouraging resident support.