Pink Sidewalks? Liquidambars' Mess? Nice Planning, Novato

Having walked the length of Grant Avenue numerous times since the installation of pink sidewalks a few years ago, I can't ignore those liquidambar trees.

The attached picture was taken in front of Circle Bank and makes me wonder why they plant this type of tree. I was told that they were carefully researched and would not damage pavement or sidewalks, so I asked a friend of mine who is a forestry professor at Texas A&M. His response follows:

"Liquidambar trees put on a most reliable show of fall color. All liquidambars have some drawbacks in the landscape that should be planned for. Their roots are notorious about lifting patios, walks and foundations.

"They drop spiny round fruit that are difficult to walk on or clean out of a lawn.  Liquidambar trees should be planted in background areas where their leaves and seedpods can fall and not bother anybody."

Novato planning strikes again ...