San Fernando Approves Purchase of Trees for Street

Demonstrating its commitment to improve the aesthetics of residential neighborhoods, the City Council this week approved the purchase of 350 trees to enhance a street once known for drug and crime problems.

The city will spend $100,000 to plant California live oak and blue paloverde trees along a stretch of Kalisher Street being transformed from predominantly commercial to residential.

Crews will begin planting the trees, which will be purchased from Boething Treeland Farms Inc., next week. The money will come from a Los Angeles County grant to develop parks and open space.

“It’s a major step in the transformation of that area,” said John Ornelas, San Fernando administrator. “This is big for us.”

For years San Fernando officials have talked of revitalizing their 2.5-square-mile municipality by beautifying the city. This, they say, is a big first step.

“The project will send a message to our citizens that the city cares about residential neighborhoods and is committed to improving them for future generations,” Mayor Jose Hernandez said.