The Toledo Mobility, Sustainability & Beautification Committee convened on June 11, 2025, to discuss a new initiative aimed at improving the city’s sidewalks while preserving its mature trees. The meeting highlighted the launch of a pilot program for a tree sidewalk rehabilitation project, which is set to take place over the summer and fall of this year.

Megan Robeson, the director of public service, introduced the program, emphasizing the importance of sidewalks for pedestrian safety, public health, and property values. The city paused its sidewalk program in 2024 to reassess its approach, leading to the development of this pilot program. The initiative will focus on 30 locations throughout Toledo where tree-related sidewalk damage has occurred. Engineers and arborists will work together to determine the best methods for repairing the sidewalks while ensuring the preservation of the trees.

Sarah Stacy, commissioner of urban beautification, elaborated on the various methods that will be employed in the pilot program. These include:

1. **Patch Method**: A quick and inexpensive approach that involves placing a wedge of asphalt to address minor sidewalk uplift, ensuring minimal disruption to tree roots.

2. **Shaving or Slicing**: This method uses a concrete planer to grind down displaced sidewalk sections, suitable for areas with up to two inches of displacement.

3. **Walking Path**: This approach reroutes sidewalk excavation to minimize root disruption, allowing for better soil volume and tree health.

4. **FlexiPave**: A porous material that can be poured around tree trunks, allowing for stormwater drainage and root aeration, particularly useful in urban areas.

The pilot program aims to gather data that will inform the city’s sidewalk program for 2026, ensuring that future projects consider both infrastructure needs and environmental sustainability. The committee plans to fund the pilot through the capital improvement plan, reflecting Toledo's commitment to enhancing urban infrastructure while addressing climate change and preserving green spaces.

The discussions underscored the city's dedication to balancing development with environmental stewardship, as community members expressed a strong desire to maintain Toledo's mature tree canopy. The pilot program represents a significant step toward integrating urban beautification with practical mobility solutions.