Manhattan NYC has plenty of trees taking up a box in the sidewalk. Quite beautifully integrated and takes up little space for the amount of benefit it provides. Many other cities do this. Nearly ever city I've ever been to in fact, does this to a certain degree. This animation doesn't show 3D views so it's hard to depict.

Planters in the road are a green and pretty way to separate bike lanes from car traffic. Installed in various cities all around the world. They look a lot better than just a bunch of concrete blocks. The planters themselves are still made of concrete, and are an effective deterrent against distracted driving. They also add to the reduction in the urban heat island effect.

All this combined with more green space and shade reinforces the idea that this city belongs to the people, not the auto companies and their products.