Let's hope that Burlingame, "The City of Trees" as it's website boasts, does not give itself a black eye. The City is dotted with rare and historic heritage oaks that many consider to be the very essence of the city. The might oak is even featured on the City's logo. One would think that this would ensure these beautiful and historic trees a place of honor in the city and at the very least assure that they will not fall victim to hasty development decisions. The City's website also boasts of sustainable environmental practices and a commitment to the environment, but on July 1st the Burlingame City Council will have an opportunity to prove that this is not mere "greenwash."
The fate of two very beautiful California Heritage Oak trees hang in the balance and the Burlingame City Council will decide if they live or die. They are located at 2220 Summit Drive in Burlingame and the project's architect, a member of the Burlingame Planning Commission, is proposing a student pick-up/drop-off area in their stead. The Burlingame Beautification Committee has made a recommendation that the developer of the site of these historic trees be allowed to destroy and replace them with four small oak trees. There are also two large protected acacias on the site that they are proposing to replace as well with four small deciduous and evergreen trees. Two acres are proposed for development on this 7 acre site and the developer, the Burlingame School District, has failed to provide substantial evidence as to why these beautiful trees cannot be accommodated. These trees have stood on this site for more than a century, offering beauty and immeasurable environmental benefit to the community. An independent certified arborist has made a determination that they are healthy and if saved, will continue to thrive and benefit generations to come.
Please sign the petition to save the Burlingame Heritage Oak trees and urge the Burlingame City Council to do the right thing.
Link to online petition:
http://www.change.org/petitions/city-of-burlingame-save-the-100-year-old-california-heritage-oak-trees-2?share_id=joFTWedJzd&utm_campaign=signature_receipt&utm_medium=email&utm_source=share_petition
