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Library tree dispute narrowed after working‑group deal; board continues appeals for fuller plan
Summary
Community appellants and Public Works reported a working-group compromise that reduced the number of ficus proposed for removal at the Main Library and committed to phased work, replacements, and community stewardship; the board continued consideration to January to allow details and timing to be finalized.
Appellants Dacia Bowler (represented by Betty Trainor) and neighborhood groups opposed the Bureau of Urban Forestry and San Francisco Public Library plan to remove multiple ficus trees near the Main Library. Appellants argued the trees provide irreplaceable canopy, that the 2017 EveryTreeSF survey recommended pruning not removal, and that large removals should be phased and publicly vetted.
Library and Public Works representatives presented a working‑group process that reduced the number of removals (from an initial 19 to a smaller number), committed to expanding planting areas and replacing removed trees with evergreen species (36‑inch box where feasible), and proposed delaying removals until nearby park renovations are complete. Public Works said it would replant before removal where possible and fund replacement trees. Several neighborhood members urged clearer public notice and more time to review the final plan.
The board continued the appeals to Jan. 15, 2020 to allow the Bureau of Urban Forestry to finalize species and timing details and present a concise public plan.
