-By GVS Intern Matt Hughes

It probably comes as no surprise that many sidewalk areas in German Village need some repair work. From missing and uneven bricks to excessive plant growth coming through the cracks, pedestrians need to be constantly watching their step when strolling through town. Particularly damaged sidewalks can make wheelchairs and strollers unsafe or nearly impossible to use. In the large majority of cases, the culprit is trees. Specifically, lateral roots of trees, which are the ones you can see in examples like the image below. These are roots that grow shallow under the surface and outward rather than down.

What may be a little more surprising, perhaps, is that it is actually the homeowner’s duty to maintain the sidewalk on their property. Restoring sidewalks is one of the top priorities for the German Village Society. However, the cost of sidewalk repair, which is the responsibility of the property owner, can be greatly decreased by contacting the German Village Society. Over the past nine months, the German Village Society has coordinated the re-laying of 6 brick sidewalks! Simply email at german@germanvillage.com to get on the list of potential repair sites. Brick sidewalks are not only strongly encouraged in German Village, but required by code unless an existing concrete sidewalk is already present.

While tree removal and replacement is by far the most effective fix, it is possible in some very minor cases to work around the tree roots and avoid removing the tree altogether (or at least for a few more years) when repairing a sidewalk. However, one should do their research when attempting this, because cutting the roots incorrectly would result in severe damage to the tree which could result in removal anyway.

We all love our trees but unfortunately, as the saying goes, ‘all good things must come to an end’ at some point. Being an older neighborhood, many trees on German Village curbs are nearing the end of their road and removal is necessary. But before removing one, remember that these trees are owned by the City of Columbus, so you must contact the Columbus Urban Forestry department to be placed on the tree removal wait list. Trees are a part of German Village’s character, but not every tree can successfully grow as a part of a sidewalk environment. Once a tree has been removed, replant a type in its place that’s better suited for curbside growth. While the City of Columbus owns the trees, property owners get to choose the type to be planted on their property. Choosing appropriate tree types retain the green space character of Village streets while allowing for safer, smoother brick sidewalks in this walkable community. Listed in the chart are trees to avoid, according a to a German Village and Columbus report from 2010.

An appropriate curbside tree in German Village is one that is resilient, strong, has deep rather than outward roots, is resistant to pests and disease, and is low enough to lessen safety hazard yet tall and full enough to fulfil the “look” of German Village (so between 40 and 60 feet). A golden rule of planting is to avoid invasive species as well. Fruitless pear trees are the most common in German Village, but these have the shallow, widespread roots that are ruining sidewalks. According to OHM Advisor’s 2015 Third Street study, 59% of pear trees in the area study are either in very poor or declining condition anyway, so replacing them would be a wise choice. The sidewalk will benefit, but such a tree in poor health is also very dangerous. And having the city remove the tree is a lot better than having Mother Nature remove it for you, possibly onto a home or car.

Several species fulfill the criteria of a good tree choice. Lacebark elm (pictured, right) is a very full tree that grows to be about 50 feet tall. It is durable, which means windstorms will likely not leave behind heavy branches all over the surrounding street, sidewalk, and yard. The growth rate is about 3.5 feet per year, which quickly provides the fullness you want that’s holding you back from removing your existing, overgrown curb tree.

The tree to the left, the trident maple tree, is another choice that allow for sidewalks to be of acceptable standards. As you can see, it is a very full, oval-shaped tree. It grows up to 35 feet, so it is a bit smaller than the lacebark elm and pear trees. One potential drawback to this tree is a slower growth rate, at typically less than 2 feet per year. But nonetheless, it is a popular choice in this reason for its noninvasive root growth and visual aesthetics.

Pacific Sunset Maples (below) are another fine option for great curbside appeal, smooth sidewalks, and healthy growth in an urban environment. It turns bright colors in the fall and typical green in the summer. This tree grows quickly to be about 30 feet high. As you can see, it is full up top, but its long, bare trunk means less maintenance to keep out of the road and sidewalk.

These are just a few of many examples that keep our sidewalks safe and appealing. Species that fit the description mentioned, as well as those recommended by the city, are worth considering. Trees and sidewalks are both essential parts of German Village and the two can coexist without harming each other when selected and placed properly.