Workshop Tonight on Tree-Planting Project

The City Council has scheduled a public workshop tonight to gather ideas about a major tree-planting project planned for Town Center, where hundreds of trees will be planted as part of a downtown beautification project to attract more businesses and shoppers.

At issue are how many trees to be planted, whether to install tree grates and lighting fixtures, and whether to use an automatic irrigation system, all of which could significantly raise the cost of the project, said Morton F. August, director of public works.

Nearly $700,000 has been budgeted for the plantings, but costs could skyrocket to nearly $2.4 million should the council approve the whole package of amenities and the planting of 490 trees throughout Town Center. That plan would match the colors of the trees’ flowers and leaves to the local streets, such as white birch trees for Street of the Silver Lantern and jacarandas for the Street of the Violet Lantern.

Residents will participate in group discussions with council members and city staffers to work out the proposal. The council will then make a final decision.

The meeting will begin at 6 p.m. in council chambers, 33282 Street of the Golden Lantern, Suite 210.