City of Sweet Home Downtown Median Tree Project Scheduled

SWEET HOME, Ore. December 12, 2019 — The City of Sweet Home Public Works Department has scheduled to begin the Downtown Median Tree Project on December 30^th. They will be removing and replacing five downtown median street trees due to leaning or outgrowing the median planters. The Public Works Department will begin the project with the removal of the selected trees. The work will begin on Monday and continue on Tuesday, December 31^st, if needed. Main Street, between 12^th Avenue and 18^th Avenue, will be restricted to a single lane in both directions while Public Works Staff are present and working.

The Park & Tree Committee recommended the removal and replacement during the October 23, 2019, meeting. The Committee comprised of the following respected community members: Chairperson Wally Shreves, Vice-Chair Lena Tucker, Vice-Chair Alice Smith, Nancy Patton, Bob Dalton, Debra Sue Northern, James Curtis, Council Representative Dave Trask. 

Park & Tree Committee Vice-Chair, Lena Tucker, stated, "Sometimes our urban trees outgrow the space in which they have been planted. Removal of these trees allows for opportunities to plant new trees and shrubs, which can add diversity and beauty to our surroundings." As trees mature in our parks and on our streets, regular inspections help with identifying changes in a tree's health. Disease, insects, and damage from the elements can become serious problems for the tree and the safety of the public. Street trees have a life plan and have to be removed before the damage they can cause. The Park & Tree Committee is in the process of determining the best tree species for our medians and the Downtown corridor.

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If you would like more information contact the City of Sweet Home Public Works Department at (541) 367-6359.