Photos Courtesy of SC Landscape and Nursery Technology
By Emma Maly
For almost half a century Southwestern College was an island of greenery in fast transforming eastern Chula Vista.
Construction has wreaked havoc with the urban forest of the Bonita Mesa. Demolition crews have removed hundreds of trees and old growth shrubs and plants, including virtually everything in the craterous core of the campus.
“The district has over 1,300 trees and 151 unique plant species pruned and maintained,” reads an undated page on the college website. “All landscape and turf areas are irrigated to maintain adequate growth, health, and appearance regardless of plant type or soil conditions.”
Not anymore.
Palm trees, pines, oak … gone.
Students have noticed.
“I just like to get in and out of campus quickly nowadays because there are way more eyesores than beauty,” said Bella Fuentes.
Facilities Director Aurora Ayala acknowledged that the landscaping is taking a beating during construction.
“The district hires a demolition contractor, part of (its) responsibility is the removal of trees that are in conflict with new infrastructure and buildings,” she said. “Impacts on trees vary from project to project. We aim to eventually create a welcoming environment for our students and community.”
Ayala said the plan is to highlight native species and drought tolerant trees. Western Sycamores, Crepe Myrtle and Chinese Elm figure prominently in the plans, she said.
“We want to keep our campus green all year long,” she said. “We are trying to plant drought tolerant plants and trees. We also want to avoid trees that have deep roots that damage sidewalks and underground utilities.”
Student Aaliyah Leilani admitted nostalgia for the greener times.
“I remember the days when I’d lay on the lawn and look at the sky, and all I’d hear was quiet,” she said. “Hopefully the new plants and trees will bring back the charm that this campus had when I first toured it.”
