While there has been heightened awareness at City Hall about saving as many city trees as possible, a number of them are simply beyond rescue.
City administration has confirmed that their Urban Forest department will be removing about 80 dead poplar trees and shrubs that line the Territorial Drive walking path between 100th Street and Douglas Ave.
While this is not the only area where there are dead trees, the worst of it is along that section, according to administration.
In a May 25 city memo, Director of Utility Services Stewart Schafer stated they regret having to remove the trees, but “they have come to the end of their life and must be removed to prevent them from becoming a safety issue.”
It will take time to remove all the trees and shrubs. The Urban Forest department does plan to replant trees in the area, but those will take time to grow. City officials are seeking the public’s patience and understanding as to why the trees are being removed.
City Manager Jim Puffalt called removal of the trees an “important part of maintenance of the Urban Forest.” He said the work of removing the trees will continue over the next month.
