Prior to undertaking this project, the historic tree rows of the Benjamin Franklin Parkway were in a state of advanced deterioration. While the Benjamin Franklin Parkway is an excellent example of a grand, formal urban boulevard, and a popular landmark, time had taken a toll on the condition of turf and trees. Photograph of Parkway prior to rehabilitation, ca 1980s. View looking east towards City Hall shows the tree allée, as malformed trees are removed. (courtesy M. Nairn) The decline of the parkway's formal planting scheme was noticeable by the late 1970s and aroused public concern. Ultimately, the situation worsened; funds were sought; and research began in 1987. Upon close inspection, field inventory revealed tangled electric lines in tree canopies [left], storm damage, sucker growth and malformed canopies [right]. (courtesy M. Nairn) A detailed inspection then revealed that, of the 219 red oak trees originally planted in the central medians, 89 had been removed due to decline prior to this project. Another 108 were in unsafe condition and required immediate removal due to disease and dieback. Many trees had wounded trunks on the street side from vehicular damage. Only 22 trees were in apparently fair to good health. While these few remaining trees were more than 24" caliper (diameter at 5 feet above grade), canopy sizes were smaller than expected. Soil compaction, age, air pollution, drought, de-icing salts, basal wounds on tree trunks from traffic accidents, temporary wiring, staples and nails from posted notices and other physical and environmental factors had all contributed to the decline of tree health. The London Plane trees on the outer allées were also suffering from the same environmental problems as those in the center aisles. Anthracnose, a fatal, disfiguring disease, and canker stain, were both evident on the London plane (Platanus acerifolia) trees. Formerly five rows, the remaining tree pattern showed numerous losses and gaps. In addition to the declining tree canopy, deteriorated turf, tangled, unsafe electric lines and inappropriate signage installations were also noted. The combination of factors led to the conclusion that total replacement of the trees was the only option, in this instance. All other components of the historic landscape would be carefull preserved.