The new Yale University beautification project is causing some concern among New Haven residents.
Signs posted on at least 18 Norway Maple trees along Prospect Street between Grove and Trumbull Streets notified the public of the pending removal of the trees.
According to Yale University, the plan is put in a sidewalk with a retaining wall and planting bed. A new species of trees and flowers will then be planted along the wall of Grove Cemetery.
Christy Hass with the city's Department of Parks, Recreation and Trees said there’s one issue with the plan.
“You’re going to be putting in sidewalks and disrupting the roots of the existing trees all of that could have an effect on those trees,
which then could leave the city with a hazardous situation, that they didn’t intend,” said Christy Hass, spokesperson for the New Haven Department of Parks, Recreation and Trees.
Yale University said the new trees will be a native species that will permit more attractive landscaping and that the University will pay for the entire project.
New Haven resident, Karen Washington said she supports the plan.
“Actually, I agree with them,” said Karen Washington, a New Haven resident. “When you walk around the campus there’s a lot of greenery. Color always makes it better.”
A public hearing will be held on the issue, but the date of the hearing has not yet been scheduled.
