8/23/22
Hi all,
Firstly, I'd like to thank you all for the support. There's been a great turn out in community interest and engagement. Thank you all who continue to share the petition and express their concerns to the Township.
I've been in contact with the Township Manager, John Shepherd, who in an email, updated me on what's been going on regarding the Righter Rd. trees.
He said on 8/17:
* "Earlier today, I inspected the location with Rick Blood, Public Works Director. As you know, the sidewalks are currently being actively replaced by the contractor.
Based on Mr. Blood’s and my review, we believe that only about six non-Ash trees will need to be removed in this area. In total, there are approximately 30 non-Ash trees in this location. Unfortunately, we will need to remove all the Ash trees because of the blight.
Mr. Blood has contacted an arborist to inspect a few of the trees where some major roots have been removed to replace the heaved sidewalk slabs. The arborist will be able to provide guidance concerning tree stability with the plan to remove any trees deemed dangerous/unstable.
It is most likely in the future, the sidewalks will again be heaved in many of the locations where the trees remain. It is unknown how long it will take to cause heaving but we anticipate more than 10 to 15 years. We have an internal conflict with preserving the trees but also replacing the sidewalks with the goal of obtaining the maximum longevity of the new sidewalk slabs. Where we remove trees and eventually replant, our plan is to utilize an underground tree root guard/guide that should protect the sidewalks from the tree root heaving problem.
I want to thank you for bringing this matter to our attention." *
From what I've gathered, the plan to eliminate "all trees" is no longer an option the township is considering. However, upon further confirmation with Mr. Shepherd, it seems that, of the (approx.) 50 trees on the street, there are ~30 "non-ash" trees and ~20 "ash" trees. About 6 non-ash trees are being removed, and all ash trees will also be removed due to "Emerald Ash Borer."
That is still about 1/2 of all trees being removed, not including the remaining trees that the arborist deem unsafe/unstable.
The talk about replanting trees with plans to use root guides and systems is promising, but is still something we need to hold the township accountable for actually executing.
I will continue to keep in touch with the township and send out updates accordingly. Until then, please still share this petition and feel free to contact the township about any questions or concerns.