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Residents and Shade Tree Commission debate benches and trees to boost walkability
Summary
Council discussed a volunteer proposal to add benches and street trees to improve walkability; the Shade Tree Commission urged homeowner consent, maintenance planning and a pilot approach, with suggested funding sources including PECO matching grants and community donations.
A volunteer‑led proposal to add benches and street trees in New Britain drew support and caution at the borough council meeting as councilors and the Shade Tree Commission discussed logistics, funding and maintenance.
Councilmember Peter presented the idea as a way to make the borough more walkable and suggested starting with a small pilot (for example, at a commercial property such as Gilmore). He said he would pursue donations and coordinate with the Shade Tree Commission and volunteers. "We would seriously sit down and talk with the street tree committee on benches ... and I'm not sure who would weigh in on benches," Peter said.
Members of the Shade Tree Commission cautioned that many potential bench locations are on private homeowner property and stressed the need for homeowner consent, long‑term maintenance plans and appropriate tree selection. The commission noted existing programs such as PHS tree purchases and suggested a PECO grant (a 50% matching grant) as a possible funding source. A cost estimate mentioned in discussion put a bench at about $2,000 and smaller PHS trees at about $290 each.
Council agreed to a modest, staged approach: pursue a pilot location, coordinate with Shade Tree and Parks & Rec, explore PECO and donation options, and return to council with a specific, costed proposal.
Next steps: Peter and staff will consult the Shade Tree Commission and approach potential pilot sites and funding sources, then bring a specific plan with cost estimates back to council for approval.
