Sidewalk Improvements in the Green Impact Zone

Sidewalks, curbs and driveway approaches paid for by TIGER grant

When neighborhood leaders in the Green Impact Zone began drafting strategies to transform the community, infrastructure improvements were high on the list. The Kansas City region secured federal stimulus funds to pay for sidewalk, curb and street improvements that will make it safer and easier for residents to get around.

Work is currently underway to repair and replace sidewalks in several neighborhoods in the Green Impact Zone. Unfortunately, in some cases, this means removing mature trees. Trees are a vital part of any neighborhood, and city staff work to retain every tree possible during infrastructure repair or new construction.

On October 1, KCMO Public Works provided a detailed map showing which trees will remain and which must be removed. ( Zoom in on the PDF for best results.)

Sidewalk and Tree Q&A

Why do some trees need to be removed?

Trees in the city right of way are only removed when they impact safety, sidewalks or infrastructure. In addition, trees will be removed when construction will result in irreparable harm to a tree’s root system or if the tree is diseased or has been damaged by storms.

What is the process to evaluate the trees?

When a construction project starts, the city project manager reviews the area and identifies trees that may be in conflict with infrastructure in need of repair. The list of trees is presented to the city’s forestry division for review, and a forester is sent to survey the project and review all trees based on overall tree health and conflict with city infrastructure.

Any concerns regarding trees to be saved or removed are discussed by the forester and the project manager. Once the review is complete, a city-approved contractor performs any necessary tree removals.

Will new trees be planted?

The city will plant two trees for each tree removed. The species and location will be determined by city foresters using an approved tree list that follows best practices for “the right tree in the right place” to accommodate future growth. The contractor will plant 2" diameter trees and warranty the replacement trees for two years.

Will more streets be impacted?

Forestry surveys in the Green Impact Zone have identified additional trees that must be removed. City staff worked diligently to save as many trees as possible, but a small percentage of trees will be removed by Public Works contractors in certain areas.

Where can I get more information?

Contact Sean Demory, KCMO Public Works, at 816-513-0059 or sean.demory@kcmo.org. You may also track TIGER projects online at www.marc.org/TIGER.