Tree Management & Protection Plan
Here is a description of how we will protect and manage city trees during reconstruction work of Patricia Avenue between Henry Sturm Greenway and Queens Boulevard.
Existing city trees were assessed during the design phase of this project to identify trees to be preserved and trees to be removed because of their health, risk, or potential long-term contribution to the urban forest. Tree planting opportunities are also identified.
These projects provide an opportunity to make decisions based on a long-term view with the goal of developing a sustainable urban forest.
Measures used to protect trees during construction include protective fencing, special construction practices (e.g. tunneling under trees) and minimizing the area of disturbance around trees.
A map and list of trees to be removed and new tree plantings are provided with this letter. The contractor will remove the trees marked for removal shortly after project commencement. Routine and special tree maintenance work may also be performed. This work includes removal of branches that are lower than 14’ (4.3 m) over the road, and 8’ (2.4 m) over the sidewalk. Low branches on private trees that overhang the sidewalk and roadway may also be pruned.
With each new tree that is planted, the City will also provide a watering bag that will be regularly filled by City staff during the growing season (May to October) for the first two years. Regular watering of newly planted trees is the most important step in establishing healthy trees. Adjacent residents are encouraged to give supplemental water during drought periods, and to water the mulch pile and a bit outside the mulch in early years to promote root growth into the boulevard.
If you have any concerns regarding this plan, please contact Joseph Lance, forestry field technician, at 226-753-2137.
For all other construction related inquiries regarding this project, please contact Brent Garcia.
The construction is now complete, and the project has entered the maintenance phase. This means we will inspect all aspects of the work done to ensure that it meets our standards. We will also address any deficiencies. Once this phase is complete, we will add a final layer of surface asphalt. This is usually about two years from the start of maintenance. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Engineering division at 519-741-2345 or engineering@kitchener.ca