Jasper seeks public input on downtown square sidewalk problems.JASPER, Tenn. – City leaders say 29 Chinese ginkgo trees planted around Jasper’s courthouse square in the early 2000s have begun causing trouble.
Some of the trees are pushing up or loosening concrete sidewalk tiles and memorial bricks, creating hazards for pedestrians. The Jasper Board of Mayor and Aldermen last week sought input from citizens and business owners.
“We have some problems down there,” Mayor Paul Evans said. “We’re going to have to do something.”
He said tree sap, leaves, and some trees bearing fruit have caused other problems for store owners.
As the trees’ root systems expand, officials said they could breach the drainage tunnels underneath the downtown streets.