Could You Plant Trees in Levittown 1950

Levittown, a post-war suburban community in Pennsylvania, was built in 1950 to house returning veterans from World War II. The community was known for its affordable homes and efficient design, with identical houses and streets throughout the neighborhood. However, one thing that was lacking in Levittown was trees. The streets were barren, without a single green leaf in sight. This has led to a long-standing debate on whether trees should have been planted in Levittown.

The Debate

One side of the debate argued that Levittown was designed to be efficient and practical, and that trees would only be an unnecessary addition that would require care and maintenance. Furthermore, planting trees would be too costly and would take away from the affordability of the homes. Supporters of this argument also argued that the suburban lifestyle was new and different, and that the lack of trees was a reflection of this modernity.

The other side of the debate argued that planting trees was essential for the aesthetics and well-being of the community. Supporters of this argument pointed out the psychological benefits of having a green environment, that trees are known to improve air quality and help in reducing noise pollution. Furthermore, trees would provide a natural boundary and create a sense of privacy around the houses, which was lacking in Levittown.

The Consequences

Although there was no consensus on whether trees should have been planted in Levittown, the lack of trees had a significant impact on the community. Without trees, the community lacked any sense of natural beauty and its streets felt harsh and unwelcoming. The suburban homes, which were all identical, appeared monotone and made it difficult for residents to distinguish their own house from their neighbor's. As a result, Levittown became a symbol of a utilitarian and soulless suburban lifestyle.

The Aftermath

Despite the lack of trees and natural beauty in Levittown, the community survived and continued to grow over time. As the years passed, residents began taking matters into their own hands and started planting trees and gardens in their own yards. The community also experienced a shift in values, with people now prioritizing natural beauty over efficiency and practicality in their living environment.

In the end, the debate over whether trees should have been planted in Levittown is one that continues to this day. While some believe that Levittown's lack of trees was a reflection of the modern suburban lifestyle, others argue that it had significant consequences that had to be addressed. Whatever the case may be, one thing is clear: the absence of trees served as a reminder that natural beauty and a sense of community are just as important as efficiency and practicality.