2025 Sidewalk Replacement Project Begins, Including Tree Replacement

Keeping our city safe and accessible is one of our top priorities — and that includes keeping our roads and sidewalks maintained for everyone in our community.

Removing trees is never an easy decision. Trees are part of what makes our neighborhoods beautiful and inviting. But sometimes, it’s necessary to keep our sidewalks safe and accessible for everyone. In the City, while we try to keep as many street trees as possible, their growth can create safety concerns. As trees grow, their roots can push up and crack sidewalks. This isn’t just about how it looks; it can also create safety issues. Raised, cracked, or uneven sidewalks can cause trips, falls, and injuries — especially for seniors, children, or anyone with mobility challenges. For wheelchair users and those with strollers, these obstacles can make sidewalks difficult or unsafe to use.

Tree removal is often the safest and most practical choice, but that’s not the end of the story. We will replant new tree species in these areas that are better suited to prevent future sidewalk damage. Over the past thirty years, we’ve learned a lot about the best ways to care for and plant street trees. We’re using that knowledge to keep trees healthy and well-maintained while minimizing any impact on our essential infrastructure.

On Monday, October 20, the 2025 Sidewalk Replacement Project will begin. The project addresses damaged sidewalks in several Lacey neighborhoods. The project involves replacing approximately 45,000 square feet of sidewalk and driveway panels that have lifted due to tree root growth, resulting in uneven surfaces and potential safety hazards.

As part of the project, we are removing the existing trees, including their stumps and root systems, and affected sections of the sidewalk. New, City-approved trees will be planted in their place, and a root barrier installed to help prevent future sidewalk and driveway damage. The work also includes adding new topsoil and concrete, and other sidewalk enhancements.

Tree maintenance responsibilities vary depending on the location of the tree. Some of the trees will be maintained by the City, some by HOAs, and others by property owners. We will reach out to homeowners, HOAs, and neighborhoods directly impacted by the project.

Learn More
You can get more information on this project, including affected areas and information on tree replacement, by visiting the 2025 Sidewalk Repair Project website.