What Happened

Homeowners along Werkner Road woke up one day in November to find orange flagged survey stakes in the middle of their yards. No advance warning, no previous communication, no resident outreach. Residents have since learned that the Washtenaw County Road Commission (WCRC) wants to chop down old growth trees and remove land so they can widen Werkner Road by 12 feet. The WCRC claims the Washtenaw County Commission expects them to widen the road, although there is no state or local. mandate they do so.

Why This Matters

Residents (from Sylvan Township and City of Chelsea) have spoken during public comment at both the November and December WCRC meetings to express opposition; others have sent emails and joined virtual meetings. We are opposed to widening. If WCRC proceeds:

• An additional 12 feet will be added to the width of the current road,
• resulting in removal of old growth trees and natural canopy
• the loss of homeowner yards and habitat on both sides (even if in the right-of-way),
• leading to more, faster and dangerous traffic on a mostly rural road
• as well as potential ecosystem impact (such as on wetlands, drainage, and pollinators),
• along with inconsistency with County, Township, and City tree preservation and sustainability goals

Old growth trees are irreplaceable, and we reduce the ability to capture carbon dioxide. The Natural Geographic Society reports that a single large tree can provide one day’s supply of oxygen for up to four people.  Mature trees are recognized natural resources under the Michigan Environmental Protection Act.

What Money Will Be Used

Tree removal and habitat destruction will be paid for with County millage money funded by you, the taxpayer. WCRC also has decision-making authority to not widen the road, or to use curbs instead (as on Sibley Road). Like WCRC, we also care about road safety. A recent Johns Hopkins University study concluded “narrow lanes save lives,” and other studies confirm that trees reduce stormwater runoff, and natural land improves water quality. 

What You Can Do

Please sign this petition to request the WCRC rebuild the road without widening and destroying what’s along it. Email WCRC Chair Barbara Fuller (fullerb@wcroads.org) and WCRC Director Matt MacDonnell (macdonellm@wcroads.org) so they know of our concern. Ask the WCRC to consult with citizens about tax dollars and with homeowners about their land. Let the County Board of Commissioners know your taxes should not be used to destroy beautiful trees and natural habitat (https://www.washtenaw.org/202/Board-of-Commissioners).  Join local citizens who want to protect the trees, habitat, and natural character of our area, and keep the existing width to avoid faster traffic.