Why A New South Bay Org Is Advocating For More Trees In This Coastal City

REDONDO BEACH, CA — Laura MacMorran is on a mission to change the scenery in Redondo Beach.

A city known for its beaches, pier and sunny skies, MacMorran believes it could use a few more trees.

"We clearly know (climates) are getting hotter, and this is one way to combat that," MacMorran told Patch. "There needs to be a cultural awakening in Redondo."

MacMorran, an urban planner by trade, and Lang started advocating for tree protection in Redondo Beach in 2021. They managed to get a tree protection ordinance passed by the City Council, but they think there's more to be done to improve Redondo Beach's environment.

To accomplish that, MacMorran and another Redondo Beach resident, Mara Lang, have started a "grassroots" community group to advocate for more trees across the coastal city.

The goal of the group is to connect community members who want to improve Redondo Beach's future by updating local city codes to create a greener, cooler and more livable environment.

It also calls for better coordination between city planning and engineering departments to ensure tree-friendly designs as part of every project approved by officials.

"I see other cities and I'm envious they have clear requirements on spacing and street minimums," MacMorran said. Redondo is due. I know there are other people who feel the same out there."

MacMorran says trees are visibly aging in Redondo Beach and not enough are being planted to replace them. But she sees it as a fixable issue that will improve the quality of people's lives across the city.

Trees offer clear benefits, acting as nature's conditioner by lowering surface temperatures and cooling neighborhoods, MacMorran said.

They're also a noise buffer to urban sounds, clean the air, reduce runoff and shield people's homes in gusty conditions.

“The economic and community benefits are clear,” MacMorran said. “Tree-lined neighborhoods have higher property values and homes with trees lower energy costs. They soften harsh sunlight, add color and character to views, and encourage outdoor activity. Trees make neighborhoods more walkable, appealing, and connected.”

The group's first meeting is Sunday, and will officially serve as the launch of Citizens for Redondo's Tree. It will also serve as a way for MacMorran and Lang to gauge community interest and see where each person's strengths lie to accomplish the goal.

"I know that I have the wherewithal from an insider's perspective and from a training perspective to help bring benefits to Redondo Beach," MacMorran said. "That's my whole approach — reasonable standards, help mitigate our environmental footprint and make our city healthier and happier to live in."

The group's first meeting will take place Sunday, July 13, at 1 p.m. at the Beach Cities Health District Redondo Room. It ls located at 514 N. Prospect Ave. in Redondo Beach.