Following is a press release from the City of Altoona in response to the destruction of some of the beautiful street trees put in place by the Shade Tree Commission.
The City of Altoona asks for your help in apprehending those responsible for the destruction of several young street trees on the 100 block of North Logan Boulevard directly in front of Mansion Park since Friday, June 11, 2010. Street trees have also been cut down during this timeframe elsewhere on Logan Boulevard. These trees were planted as City beautification projects at a cost to taxpayers of several hundred dollars each. Anyone with information on this vandalism should call the City of Altoona Police Department at 949-2489. Witnesses should specifically call Sergeant Frank Shields at 949-2518.
The City of Altoona Shade Tree Commission is offering a reward of $1,000 for any information that leads to an arrest and conviction.
(read on)
The City of Altoona Shade Tree Ordinance (#5572) prohibits the destruction of trees within the City right-of-way. Any press organization who wishes to interview a City official on this matter may call either myself or the City Manager’s office.
Thank you any help that you may be able to provide in publicizing this crime and the associated reward. It is genuinely appreciated.
Sincerely,
–Lee C. Slusser, AICP
Deputy Director/Planning Administrator
Department of Planning and Community Development
City of Altoona
(814) 949-2470
ILoveAltoona.com has produced the Blair County Family Fun Card. 
