As part of the Lions Park Projects, the city will plant a total of 225 new trees in Lions Park. That number includes a proposal to plant 68 new trees as part of the park’s playground improvements. Given that proposed number, which is almost three times the number of existing trees currently in the playground, there will be dense reforestation of the area.

The City’s Arborist has recommended some trees for removal because they are either dead or dying, which has caused concerns for some residents.

Click here to read the arborist’s findings and recommendations for removal of 25 trees in the playground.

In addition to the 68 trees planned for the playground, the city planted 157 trees as part of the Library and Community Center projects for a total of 225 trees. The total trees in place before these projects was 105. Also, the New Zealand Christmas Tree that was planted by the Lions Club will be protected and stay part of this beautiful new park.

City staff is always interested in protecting Costa Mesa’s urban forest and is very sensitive to removal of any tree in public right-of-way. Staff carefully evaluates any request for removal of trees and takes necessary steps to mitigate the impact of removal. The City’s arborist conducted a detailed inspection of every tree in Lions Park Playground.

Furthermore, instead of planting the standard 24-inch box trees, the city is planting trees between 36 inch to 48 inch box-size to provide immediate benefit of a mature tree.

The completed project will bring a significant benefit to children and residents in the area, reducing issues with falling branches, limbs and tree failures.