​The Phoenix Public Transit Department is working on a tree improvement and maintenance project starting this March. This includes replacing trees lost due to storms, accidents and disease, as well as for making accessibility improvements.
This means that you may see trees being removed in the central core of Phoenix in and around public transit amenities. This is slated to last more than a year.
As part of the project, more than 200 trees will be pruned, removed, replaced or will have fencing placed around the base in an effort to have more pedestrian friendly landscaping and to improve accessibility of the overall area.
Some of the new trees to be planted will be of a different species. This species known as Pistache has a tendency to have trunks that grow slowly and straight, are more wind resistant and provide a better shade canopy. This allows for more maintenance efficiency and in combatting some of the issues seen with other trees whose branches tend to protrude into walk paths, bike lanes or the adjacent roadway.
The 18-month project also includes tree planting in more than 180 empty tree wells.
Stay alert and proceed with caution if you see this work taking place.
