Palm Walk rehabilitation

Palm Walk, the iconic pathway on Arizona State University’s Tempe campus, began rehabilitation in 2016. Since the fan palms have a documented history back to 1917, they were near the end of their life cycle. As part of a two-phase renewal plan, ASU will replace more than 100 fan palms with date palms. The rejuvenation of one of the more recognizable features on campus underscores the university’s commitment to sustainability and growth.

Several factors were considered in the selection of the new date palms. Benefits include more shade for pedestrians and fruit for the university’s annual date harvest. For example, the larger date palm fronds provide more shade on the walkway. Date production will be on display and harvested in the fall in the near future.

Sun Devils and university supporters can help enhance Palm Walk and advance the ASU mission. Donations can be made through the ASU Foundation. All proceeds go to the rehabilitation and care of the project.

Phase I

Phase I replaces 35 fan palms with date palms located between Computing Commons and the Sun Devil Fitness Complex. The date palms will grow to a maximum height of 80 feet.

Campus: Tempe
Palms planted: 35 palms
Project cost for Phase I: $524,000
Architect: Moore-Swick Partnership
Construction team: Okland Construction
Project start date: July 2016
Project end date: August 2016

 

Phase II

Phase II, which completes the Palm Walk rehabilitation, replaces 68 fan palms with date palms located between University Drive and Orange Street. The date palms will grow to a maximum height of 80 feet.

Campus: Tempe
Palms planted: 68 palms
Project cost for Phase II: $841,815
Architect: Moore-Swick Partnership
Construction team: Okland Construction
Project start date: June 2017
Project end date: August 2017