The city will be planting trees in the median along Riverside Parkway on Friday, April 28, 2023. To keep crews safe while they work to plant new trees, on Friday, April 28, the inside eastbound and inside westbound lanes closest to the median will be closed near the 5th Street interchange along Riverside Parkway. The outer lanes in both directions will remain open for motorists. Lane closures are anticipated from 5 a.m. - 3 p.m on Friday and then heading west, occur again on Tuesday, May 2 and Friday, May 5, 2023.
Crews will plant 29 trees including seven different species. The variety of species to be planted were selected for their adaptability to grow successfully in challenging locations. They are tolerant of heat and sailine rich soil. These new trees will not only provide beautification of the area, but also support the larger urban canopy. With pressures from the ash bark beetle, lilac ash borer, and Japanese beetle, ash trees in particular, are in decline and this has forced numerous trees throughout the city to be removed including those in locations along Riverside Parkway.