The Intersection of Trees and Safety

Local planners often restrict tree planting near intersections due to safety concerns, which may not be justified. This article recommends that cities should not restrict sidewalk street trees unless it can be shown unequivocally that they create unsafe environments. This issue relates to urban design, pedestrian safety, and public health, as street trees contribute to pedestrian comfort and environmental benefits. Research indicates that high-branching trees do not significantly obstruct drivers' views compared to parked cars and newspaper racks, suggesting that current guidelines need re-evaluation.