Normally property owners are responsible for installing and maintaining sidewalks. Maybe your neighbors privately installed their sidewalks. If you take that route, make sure to use pervious pavers in the area around the tree, especially between the sidewalk and curb (you may want to use standard pavers for the main sidewalk area past the tree to ensure that it is smooth enough for wheelchairs…and tricycles).

The reason trees buckle sidewalks is because they are trying to get access to water. If you dig up the ground beneath standard pavement, it's completely dry. Trees need water to survive. Keep this in mind as you explore options for redoing your sidewalk. This could be a tremendous opportunity to improve the health of your grand old trees (are those sycamores?).

Brian,

I wasn't aware that it was the owners responcibility, after all it is a city tree that has caused the problem. I will have to investigate further to determine who is responcible.

I would love to have a tree but as you can see this is becoming a serious problem not only is the sidewalk buckling but the roots are starting to cause a problem with the facade of the house and the concrete stairs leading to the house.

still haven't heard anything from public works

has this been addressed?

This problem has only gotten worst!

As of 2013 City departments have begun to review, acknowledge and respond to SeeClickFix issues. Since your issue is in the category titled "No Service Request" and was submitted prior to 2013, we are going to close and archive it. If this issue still requires City attention, please report as a new SeeClickFix issue. Thank you.