Crews from the City of Allentown Parks Department will begin the process of planting 12 Willow Oak trees in the 800 and 900 blocks of Hamilton Street this week. The Willow Oak trees will replace a dozen Japanese Zelkova trees that have out grown the area.
City Parks Superintendent and certified arborist Rick Holtzman says the Willow Oak trees are a more urban friendly tree and are less likely to cause sidewalk and building damage. They are more road salt tolerant and will increase the uniformity and consistency of the streetscape.
According to the Arbor Day Foundation, the Japanese Zelkova grows 50′-80′ high with a 50′-75′ vase shape spread while the Willow Oak will grow to 40’-60’ high with a 35’ pyramid shape spread.
It is believed that the Japanese Zelkova trees were planted in the early 1990s.
The project will result in single lane closures on Hamilton Street in the work area.
The tree removal and planting process is expected to be completed by Friday, October 3.
NEWS RELEASE
September 23, 2014
For Additional Information Please Contact:
Mike Moore
Communications Manager
