Gibbons Sidewalks and Trees Plan

What's happening on Gibbons Drive?

The City of Alameda has assessed the Liquidambar, or Sweetgum, trees that line Gibbons Drive. These iconic trees are an important part of our community's character and urban forest, and we appreciate the value they bring to the neighborhood.

Toward the end of July 2025, the City's consultant, HortScience | Bartlett Consulting, visually assessed the health and structural condition of the Liquidambar trees. You may have seen assessors in orange vests measuring and tagging the trees for future reference. This evaluation helps us understand what trees are thriving, what trees are in decline, and how each tree's root system impacts the surrounding infrastructure. 

Why these trees?

This is a complex issue that the City has been monitoring for some time, and we are now working to develop comprehensive and thoughtful solutions that include community input and public process. Some of the roots of the trees along Gibbons Drive have caused extensive damage to adjacent sidewalks, which creates safety and accessibility issues. Pedestrians and people who use mobility devices (strollers, walkers, wheelchairs, etc.) may experience difficulty navigating the path of travel. 

The ultimate objective is to develop a plan that balances public safety, infrastructure needs, and the preservation of Alameda’s beloved urban tree canopy.

What's next?

Five (5) trees were posted and removed in April due to their condition. No decisions have been made at this time about other Liquidambar tree removals or extensive sidewalk reconstruction. The evaluation by HortScience contributes important information for developing solutions. We invite you to join a public meeting to learn about the assessment's findings and share your ideas and feedback on plan development. 

The next community meetings are in July. Notes from the previous meetings are available for your review. 

ADA Notice: The City of Alameda will not discriminate against individuals with disabilities on the basis of disability in its services, programs, or activities. If you need accessibility accommodations to participate, or information in other formats, please contact ada@alamedaca.gov

Take a few moments to submit your comments and feedback to our team:

Gibbons Plan Comments

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For More Information

Take a Tour of Gibbons Drive

Map above is the street view of Gibbons Drive, from Versailles Ave to High St.

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