After years of complaints and calls for review, the City of Victoria proposes a two-year study to revamp its ailing boulevard program.
Since the early 1900s, residents living alongside boulevards have been taxed for the upkeep of the strip of lawn and trees separating the road from the sidewalk.
Today, less than 28 per cent of property owners participate, leaving less funding to maintain the program.
Water and pesticide restrictions further eroded the effectiveness of the program.
City parks staff now propose to study the issue, with input from residents. It will also examine alternative uses for the boulevards, such as food gardens, commercial seating and storm water management.
Issues include tripping hazards and poor maintenance by property owners.
On Thursday, the city council’s environment and infrastructure committee will review the proposed project charter.
rholmen@vicnews.com