The decision as to where to place new sidewalks, including the side of the street and placement in relation to the curb, should be made at the recommendation of the city engineer and should be based on a number of factors including environmental constraints and costs considerations. The design of sidewalks, necessary retaining walls, and materials will be subject to discussion at a public meeting prior to council providing final approval.
When constructing new sidewalks every effort should be made to limit the number of mature trees removed during the construction process. If a property owner wishes to save a mature tree that otherwise would need to be removed to allow for the sidewalk, that property owner may choose to have the tree saved by providing an easement for the sidewalk to go around the tree. This easement would be provided at no cost to the city. The city is not responsible for replacing or compensating property owners for any landscaping located within the public right-of-way that is removed to allow for the installation of sidewalks.