{"id":1450,"date":"2014-11-25T10:10:00","date_gmt":"2014-11-25T10:10:00","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/bostonzest.com\/?p=1450"},"modified":"2014-11-25T10:10:00","modified_gmt":"2014-11-25T10:10:00","slug":"protecting-the-very-sensitive-toes-of-a-famous-boston-elm","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/bostonzest.com\/?p=1450","title":{"rendered":"Protecting the Very Sensitive Toes of a Famous Boston Elm with FlexiPave"},"content":{"rendered":"

In 2010, a century old elm in Boston\u2019s Back Back gained notoriety after a group of residents worked to save the towering giant.<\/p>\n

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As one of the neighborhood\u2019s original street trees planted more than 125 years ago, this aging beauty had stretched its toes up and through the brick sidewalk. To smooth passage over the roots, an experimental macadam was installed but didn\u2019t work out. It was time to try another alternative.
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After extensive talks with the city of Boston<\/a> and the Back Bay Architectural Commission<\/a>, the previous material has been replaced with a more durable and aesthetically pleasing product called KBI FlexiPave<\/a> \u2013 a rubber and aggregate surface that is ADA certified, the color of brick, and extremely water permeable.<\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n

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(Once the main walkway was in place, the FlexiPave surface was extended over the tree's protruding roots to widen the path)<\/em><\/span><\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n

The Garden Club of the Back Bay<\/a> generously fronted the $1,400 to install the new surface before winter set in. Now they are asking for donations to refill their coffers for the next project.<\/p>\n

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The tree is on Marlborough Street near the corner of Fairfield. Take a test stroll or roll over the new surface. It\u2019s smooth and has a bit of cushion to it. If you like this treatment, don\u2019t be shy, consider making a tax deductible contribution. It\u2019ll be greatly appreciated.<\/p>\n

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Checks should be made out to The Garden Club of the Back Bay and mailed to: Margaret Pokorny, 384 Marlborough St., Boston, MA 02115.<\/p>\n

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