GALT, CA (MPG) - In its latest newsletter, the city highlighted several ongoing and upcoming landscape improvement projects focused on beautifying public spaces while prioritizing “sustainability, water conservation and long-term maintenance efficiency.”

Elm Avenue Improvements

The Elm Avenue project marked the first completed effort, with Phase 1 improvements spanning curb to sidewalk from Robin Lane (north side) westward to the end of city-maintained property. The work included removing overgrown vegetation, adding new plantings and shredded cedar mulch in bare areas, installing a drip irrigation system for efficient watering and planting Chinese Pistache trees to provide shade and visual appeal.

According to the city, Phase 2 of the Elm Avenue project is set to begin next and will shift focus to the hillside behind the sidewalk leading to the sound wall. Planned improvements include removing existing vegetation, installing a drip irrigation system and planting drought-resistant plants and ground cover designed to create a sustainable, low-maintenance landscape.

 

Pictured are before, left, and after, right, views of Phase 1 landscaping improvements along Elm Avenue. 

Harvey Park Turf Renovation

The city also provided an update on turf renovation efforts at Harvey Park, located at the corner of C Street and Third Street.

Project highlights include removing turf areas that lacked viability and replacing traditional irrigation with a drip system to improve water management. Existing eucalyptus trees were preserved, while additional trees were planted to create a more symmetrical and visually appealing layout. The newsletter also noted that native plants and trees were incorporated to further support a sustainable landscape.

Stockton Boulevard Landscaping

In addition, the city announced upcoming landscaping work along Stockton Boulevard near Walnut Avenue.

Plans call for a drought-tolerant landscape design intended to reduce water use and minimize long-term maintenance. Existing turf will be removed and replaced with climate-appropriate plants requiring minimal irrigation, while new ground cover will help retain soil moisture, suppress weeds and improve soil health.

All new planting areas along Stockton Boulevard will be supported by drip irrigation systems designed to deliver water directly to plant roots, reducing waste and runoff. The city stated in the newsletter that this approach will lessen the need for frequent watering, mowing and trimming while creating a cleaner, greener appearance along the road corridor.

 

A current view of landscaping along Stockton Boulevard, left, and a rendering showing the planned improvements for the road corridor.