In its youth, the Stapleton community was often mocked and criticized for its lack of mature trees. Now, a decade or so later, the trees all over the community are filling in nicely. From the parks and trails, to people’s homes, and to the roadside trees as well, the Stapleton trees are growing tall. Trees are great for a community in that they make it colorful and provide shade.
But recently, a new benefit is being realized. The trees have begun to cover the many stop signs that have inconvenienced drivers as well as cluttered up the neighborhood. “I love my community,” says resident Craig Lockie. “But we have so many stop signs, and it became frustrating after a while. Now that the trees are growing in and covering these eye sores up, it just looks so much better. Plus, I get around a lot easier as well.”
Most residents can agree that the appearance of the neighborhood as well as being able to get around more quickly outweighs the small safety hazard that comes with people not stopping at these intersections. “It is certainly possibly that a few minor fender benders will happen,” says resident Kaylee Fitzpatrick. “But if a tree covers up a stop sign, was it ever really there?”
The Denver Police Department has actually given up writing tickets for people running stop signs in Stapleton. “We have lost every stop sign violation in Stapleton we have written in the last three months,” says Denver Police Chief Gerald Whitman. “In every case, the offender was able to easily prove that the sign was not visible. At this point, writing and fighting these tickets is a waste of our time. and resources.”
The situation has worked out well for all residents since no one ever stopped at the signs anyway. “I am just glad I don’t even have to feel guilty about it anymore,” says Lockie. “Plus, the trees are looking great.”]]>