Efforts to Improve Streetscape Advance

Officials from the Public Works Department will give City Council members an update tonight on the progress of the Community Beautification Plan, which aims to revamp sidewalks, plant trees and improve the appearance of streets.

The projects are part of the capital improvement plan approved by the council last June. City Parks Manager Mike Montoya said it’s the first time a beautification plan has been in place, and he hopes funding will continue for further efforts. Thus far, about $2.6 million has been allocated on beautification projects.

“We’re hoping the council continues to show a commitment toward beautifying the community,” Montoya said. “It will take us about five years to catch up on maintenance that was deferred over the years.”

Over $500,000 has been reserved for tree management within the city, according to officials. To date, 2,500 trees citywide and 38 ficus trees on San Clemente Street have been pruned, more than 120 problem trees have been removed, and more than 90 trees have been planted. The project aims to plant 295 trees.

Park irrigation plans are also moving along, with improvements to be completed next month for Camino Real Park, Blanche Reynolds Park, Cemetery Memorial Park and Westpark.

Improvements to approximately 800 sidewalks, curbs and gutters will also be completed in July, with 200 sites already finished.