Even though summer is officially over this week and the days are getting shorter, it's been a very warm September. Which reminds me of one of the things I love about Montclair: the town's commitment to shade trees.

I often share this fun fact with clients: With a population of close to 40,000, Montclair reportedly has as many trees as residents.

I don’t think I ever appreciated Montclair’s shade trees more than I did this August when, in the swelter of an east coast summer, I decided to walk to town to do some errands. This was one of those days that we all were wilting. I filled a bottle of water and started out the door. The sun was high, but most of my walk was under a canopy of trees. The air was still, but in the shade, the little air that did pass by me as I walked felt almost like a breeze.

It was hot. But it wasn’t awful.

Montclair retains a part-time arborist to make sure our tree game is strong. Not too long ago, it had become fashionable to plant Bradford pear trees – smallish tree shaped like lollipops that are prone to splitting. Montclair still has many old oaks and sycamores that parasol the streets and sidewalks, and we’ve stepped away from the pear trees, which I’m glad about, as they do not provide the same quality of shade.

To me, part of a great suburban experience includes optimal walkability, even when it's hot. If you’re interested in a town that is designed for walking – call me. I’d love to show you around. 973-809-5277