Amman Is Removing Trees From Some Sidewalks... Here’s Why 🌳

The Greater Amman Municipality (GAM) has begun removing selected trees from sidewalks across the capital, saying they are obstructing pedestrian movement, affecting accessibility or interfering with infrastructure.

According to GAM, each tree is being assessed individually based on sidewalk width, pedestrian traffic, accessibility needs and its impact on the surrounding infrastructure. The municipality says the focus is particularly on ensuring safe movement for children, older people, people with disabilities and stroller users.

As of September 16, GAM said around 55 trees had been removed, stressing that removal is considered a last resort and that pruning is used where possible. The municipality also said some trees can be relocated and replanted rather than permanently removed.

The move comes as Amman continues to work on pedestrian accessibility and public-space improvements. The city's Green City Action Plan includes measures to improve sidewalk conditions and develop a public realm that better supports walking, alongside broader goals around accessible and biodiverse green infrastructure.

GAM says the removal of selected trees does not mean the city is moving away from expanding its green spaces. Instead, it describes the work as reorganizing urban planting to better fit sidewalk conditions, pedestrian needs and municipal infrastructure.

The decision has also sparked discussion among residents, with some supporting clearer, more accessible sidewalks while others are calling for solutions that preserve existing trees through pruning, relocation and better planning.

The bigger question for Amman: how do we make sidewalks easier for everyone to use while keeping the shade and greenery that make the city feel like home? 🌳