Major Roads and Boulevards

Many of the trees that lined Galveston majestic boulevards were lost in the storm surge. By one estimate more than 500 of the grand oaks that lined Broadway were destroyed by Ike’s salt water flooding. Oddly, at a few scattered locations a small number of survivors remain -- a reminder of a time when the City’s trees were a source of pride to her citizens and a welcoming beacon to her many visitors.

Although it will take at least a generation to re-establish Galveston’s trees, a campaign to replant the City’s streets and boulevards is already underway.Thus far, with help from local philanthropists and businesses, the Conservancy has replanted seven blocks of Broadway as well Rosenberg Avenue (25th Street ) from Broadway to the Harbor. In addition, plans are being developed to complete work on North Rosenberg to the Seawall and to beautify Harborside Drive. The banner photo at top, courtesy of the Texas Forest Service, is a visualization of what Harborside might look like using Texas Ebony and Jerusalem Thorn (Palo Verde) as shade trees.

The replanting of major thoroughfares presents major challenges, however. These include technical, horticultural and aesthetic issues, the need to maintain rigorous standards for a modern roadways and the importance of maintaining links to the Island’s historic past. These issues are now being addressed by a consortium of agencies working under an umbrella provided by the Conservancy. Members include government agencies, both local and state, as well as utilities providers, civil society groups and a variety of nonprofits.

To jump start the process, the Conservancy co-financed a “historical treatment plan” that will guide a $3 million effort to replant the trees along Broadway. The plan is available for review on-line for review and comment.