The lobby of Concordia’s City Hall features photos of our historic downtown, and while iconic buildings are easily recognized, it may be difficult to wrap our minds around the horse-drawn carriages lining the wide dirt pathways of the 1800s. The progression from hitching posts to parking meters to pedestrian-friendly streetscapes reflects the constant changes we face while adhering to the same values we cherish: our friendly people and the places they enjoy. What about the trees?
Some may recall the Roger Brooks study of 2014. This study analyzed the appearance of our downtown business district and offered suggestions for improvement of tourism and growth of the local economy. Many of the suggestions have been implemented, including enhancement of the downtown streetscape with flower pots and trees. The Downtown Improvement Grant was updated in 2015, and Broadway Plaza opened in 2016.
My favorite view of downtown Concordia occurs in early spring, when the pear trees are in full bloom. Their white blooms contrast starkly with the tall buildings. This perspective view elongates the three lineal blocks of the Downtown Business District, anchored by the Brown Grand Theatre on the west and Broadway Plaza on the east. These trees remind us we are blessed to enjoy such a vibrant community, alive with people, places to go and things to see.
Trees are living beings. This became evident beyond changing leaves as we began to notice bricks protruding and curbs sinking. The roots sought water, growing beyond the confines of the concrete tubes in which they were planted, creating trip hazards. Trunks enhanced their girth as branches reached toward the sky, dwarfing traffic lights meant to keep pedestrians safe and traffic flowing efficiently.
After the Kansas Department of Agriculture designated Callery pear trees as invasive in February 2024, Concordia secured a grant to support replacing them responsibly. For every tree removed, two will be planted — 24 downtown and 24 elsewhere in the community — while trees at Broadway Plaza and the public parking lot at 5th & State will also be pruned.
City Public Works crews began removing the downtown trees earlier this month, marking the first step in preparing the area for new plantings. After removal, staff will repair brick pavers and ready the planter boxes for replacement trees later this year. The grant requires that a certified arborist oversee planting, and the City is currently working to select a qualified vendor. Our goal is to have the project completed by August 1, 2026, well before Fall Fest.
Though gone for a moment, Concordia’s downtown streetscape will continue to feature trees. Growth and resulting change remind us we are alive with places to go and people to see. And sometimes work involving safety improvements and compliance with regulations can be fun and beautiful. Concordia…We Build Community!
