It took a while, but the Stapleton trees are finally growing up. There was a time in Stapleton when the tiny trees looked anemic and residents wondered if they would ever see the day when the Stapleton trees would look like they would make it through a winter. Today, you can often see trees providing some shade on a lawn or even a patio. In fact, according to some, many trees have grown up too much and need to be taken down a notch.
“The Stapleton sidewalks are ridiculous,” says Stapleton runner Keith Gerber. “I would say 50% of Stapleton sidewalks are not navigable. Low hanging branches, brush, leaves, and tree limbs completely impede the paths.” Drivers have long noticed the issue with trees in front yards blocking stop signs, and now runners and walkers are feeling the pain. “Lots of people are like me and run with their kids in a stroller,” said runner Tanya Shelton. “I am often forced to run with my kids in the streets so that they are not hit in the face with branches. It’s crazy.”
Homeowners are not doing anything about it so runners have been forced to take things into their own hands. “Many of my other running friends and myself have decided to purchase machetes,” says Kelly Sturcke. “They actually work great at clearing the foliage.” Other runners agree. “It’s really great if you are running with your Bob stroller,” said fellow runner Duane Kimball. “I put the machete in the back of the stroller, and when I see some low hanging branches, I grab it out and hack away.” Lauren Crawford sees another benefit of it. “If you are running on the Westerly Creek path you can scare off any flashers. Believe me, it has come in handy.”
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