Rubbersidewalks were invented by Richard Valeriano, Public Works Inspector for
the city of Santa Monica, California and tested in that city for over three
years. Originally conceived as a solution that would take advantage of rubber’s
flexibility and allow the sidewalk to bend when the tree roots grew, it was
discovered that tree roots exhibited a different growth pattern under
Rubbersidewalks than under concrete. The growth rate of roots was slower and
roots grew in small tender offshoots that could be easily and safely trimmed.
Rubber is lighter and more resilient than concrete, and tree roots were getting
sufficient water and oxygen through the paver seams.
Rubbersidewalks opened, exposed roots and root growth under concrete.
Modularity and the unique relationship between Rubbersidewalks and tree roots
result in maintainable sidewalks and a flourishing urban forest.
The resources
of the earth are limited. Recycling is limited only by our
imagination and effort.
