cThe process seemed to have already begun. The owners of a corner house reportedly had been ordered to remove and replace their sidewalks and curbs. They felt they were also being told to take down their four lindens. The immediate result was hideous – and very expensive. Also, the curb beside a dozen trees in the next block that apparently were designated for possible removal had been marked by a pink paint splotch.

All of this happened without consultation of the residents.

Although they were not on the meeting’s agenda, Grace Crampsie Smith, chair of the public works committee, invited several representatives of the neighborhood to address the committee.

Jeff Hutwelker, a retired engineer, recommended alternatives to traditional paving that would do less damage to the trees. No one moves to Edgeboro for the streets, he noted; many people are attracted by the trees.

Kim Plyler concurred, adding that better communication between the city and the neighborhood could prevent future misunderstandings and anxiety such as Edgeboro residents were now feeling.

Johanna Brams said, among other things, that she moved to Edgeboro over 25 years ago because of the trees. Barbara Tracy, an artist, emphasized the beauty that the trees create.

In conclusion, Michael Alkhal, the city’s director of public works, addressed the residents’ concerns, assuring them that, at most, one tree may have to be removed, and pledging that work-around solutions will be identified to preserve other trees that would be damaged or killed by traditional paving.

He noted Bethlehem has been designated a Tree City USA for 20-30 years, and assured the audience that his department appreciates both the trees’ beauty and their contribution to real estate values in neighborhoods such as Edgeboro. To protect the trees, the city will be “going the extra mile,” he said.