‘Diversitree’ Project Brings Over 200 New Trees to Hilltop

Amidst the recent upswing in activity that will bring a series of new mixed-use developments to the neighborhood, the Hilltop community can expect to see some other upgrades to the district's core thanks to a unique collaboration between private sector, economic development and environmental interests. With a special focus on South 11th Street, South 9th Street to Earnest S. Brazill Street, and South J Street to South Sheridan Avenue, the "Hilltop Diversitree" project is expected to bring over 200 new trees into the area. 

“This tree planting project is another significant step towards years of community and economic development efforts in the Hilltop neighborhood," said Council Member Lauren Walker. "I am thrilled about this wonderful project!” 

The project has been made possible by a donation of $100,000 from an anonymous donor to The Greater Tacoma Community Foundation, an additional $30,000 for project maintenance from the Donald R. and Mary E. Williams Horticulture Fund, and additional funds from the City of Tacoma's Community and Economic Development Department and Environmental Services Department to boost the scope of the project, which is estimated to cost a total of $175,000 - $200,000.   

“An investment of this size will make an immediate and noticeable difference in the community,” said Greater Tacoma Community Foundation President and Chief Executive Officer Rose Lincoln Hamilton. “It will provide beautification and benefit to the neighborhood, and long-lasting impact on the environment. It’s an important step forward in creating and sustaining healthier communities.”

On the north and south planting strips of the Safeway block, along South 11th and Earnest S. Brazill streets, a demonstration planting of over 20 species of overhead utility friendly trees is planned by the City. This demonstration will be a testing ground for small trees species and cultivated varieties to be grown under existing power lines, and serve as an example for the community to view "the right trees in the right place." Signage for the demonstration planting is anticipated to be provided in partnership with Tacoma Power to identify each species and cultivated variety and summarize the overall project. 

Apart from the demonstration project species, species selection for the rest of the project will focus primarily on the three shade species selected by the Hilltop Neighborhood Business District in 2009, consisting of Triumph elm (Ulmus  'Morton Glossy'), Katsura (Cercidiphyllum japonicum), and willow oak (Quercus phellos). These three species offer fall color ranging from yellows to purple-reds. Additional species that include evergreen trees, where appropriate, will be added to increase diversity and provide a greater stormwater benefit and more visual interest year-round. 

In addition to tree plantings, the City is proposing the construction of four medians on South 11th Street, between South J Street and South Sheridan Avenue, for tree plantings. Planted medians provide additional locations to grow trees that do not require a reduction of parking, add more rooting volume than traditional street tree pits, eliminate conflicts between street trees, buildings and signs, provide traffic calming effects, and extend the life of existing pavement by reducing exposure to UV rays.

A groundbreaking and first tree planting is scheduled for October 2013, with an exact date still to be determined. 

Community questions or comments about this project can be directed to Urban Forester Ramie Pierce attrees@cityoftacoma.org or (253) 591-2048.