The Free the Trees, Save our Roots project, took place from August 2004- August 2006 with the explicit goals of improving tree pits and sidewalks along the main business district of the Greenwood and Phinney Ridge neighborhoods.  This project came about, in large part, from the results of the April 24, 2004 street-level survey in the Greenwood-Phinney Ridge neighborhood.  The data revealed that a major problem along the business district was tree roots upheaving and causing uneven pavement along sidewalks and concrete pavers to become uprooted in tree pits as the trees have grown larger over time.  Sustainable Seattle, along with the Greenwood-Phinney Chamber of Commerce, both community councils, the Phinney Neighborhood Associtaion and community activists applied for a grant from Seattle's Office of Economic Development and was awarded $20,000 to improve tree pits and sidewalks.

Outcomes

After 2 years of project planning and implementation, the results are now visible for anyone strolling down Greenwood Avenue, from 67th Avenue N to 84th Avenue N.  There are 800 square feet of concrete and spot repairs, 28 tree pits enlarged, 83 tree pits improved with mulch and new plantings (2,380 square feet), 65 volunteers contributed over 400 volunteer hours, and $8642 financial contribution from property owners in the community matched by city funds (to total over $17,284). 

Tree Pit/Sidewalk Data Base

For specific photos of the tree pits in the database, please email Deborah at deborah@sustainableseattle.org with the number of the tree pit photo you are requesting. 

 Thank You!

Final Report