Have you noticed the tree-removal notice at Humboldt and Government streets? It seems city council thinks this is 鈥渘ecessary鈥� to create a scramble crosswalk.
I am not against scramble crosswalks 鈥� they work well in many cities 鈥� but in already paved areas and not at the expense of precious green space. I am dismayed that city councillors show wanton disregard for trees. Only a few months ago, they removed beautiful trees on Fort Street.
Progressive cities around the world are undertaking urban tree-preservation programs. Research shows that urban people need green space for their physical and emotional well-being.
Trees extract carbon dioxide from the air and produce oxygen. Trees provide a tranquil oasis in an ever-growing mass of concrete.
A few years ago, Melbourne, Australia, provided email addresses for individual trees so residents could report vandalism or illness. Much to everyone鈥檚 surprise, residents and tourists from around the world began sending emails expressing their love to the trees and thanking them for enriching their lives.
Sadly, Victoria is not in sync with the rest of the world. What is Victoria鈥檚 message to our trees? A tree removal notice. And for what? To build 鈥渂etter鈥� thoroughfares through more concrete.
If we really want to improve Victoria, why not divert traffic and make Government Street a pedestrian corridor, as many have proposed?
Instead of issuing its death warrant, city council could make this beautiful tree a living landmark and welcoming gateway to the heart of our city.
听
Mariann Burka
Victoria
