Discussion and possible directions to staff on any and all matters regarding the idea of planting trees along County 22nd Street from 4th Avenue to 8th Avenue in the attempt to beautify and improve livability in the city.  (Council Member Africa Luna-Carrasco; Eulogio Vera, Director of Public Works; and Lizandro Galaviz, Director of Parks & Recreation)

Trees are an important component in a city's overall green infrastructure plan because they add value and provide a huge visual appeal.  Additionally, trees can enhance our resident's way of life.  Trees are known to provide many mental and physical health benefits to people.  They help filter particulate out of the air, absorb carbon dioxide, and emit oxygen.  Street and park trees offer mental and emotional restorative properties to people by helping to mitigate noise, provide a contrast to hard concrete surfaces, by establishing a connection to the natural world, and importantly, by reducing stress.  All these benefits not only make people healthier but also reduce health care costs.  The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign's Landscape and Human Health Laboratory has not only that contact with plants and nature promote human health, but reduces symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, improve self-discipline, boost concentration and resilience, discourage crime, and reduce domestic violence.  (http://lhhl.illinois.edu/)

Discussion and possible directions to staff only, no action.