Parkway Trees Trimming

Why are parkway trees trimmed?

• To eliminate low limb interference with pedestrians, buses and trucks
• To clear roadway signs and streetlights of obstructions
• To remove hazardous deadwood
• To reduce the effects of wind and ice on branch stability
• To maintain the natural shape of the tree
• To repair storm damage
• To improve the overall health of the tree by reducing the opportunity for insects and disease infestation

Why are the trees trimmed so high?

Since parkway trees are in close proximity to streets and sidewalks, trees could be “raised” up to 16 feet to minimize damage to the trees from trucks and buses passing beneath them. Large snow plows, school buses and dump trucks can be over 12 feet tall.

Why should young trees be pruned?

A young tree whose branches do not yet extend over the street or sidewalk, must have the lower branches removed now to prevent a future hazard. It is best to remove the branches while the tree is young so that the wound created is smaller and heals quicker. Pruning helps to provide a strong branch structure for future growth

After trimming, a tree’s appearance is changed quite dramatically causing residents concern. You will be pleased to know that trees generally experience substantial growth the year after trimming and the change quickly becomes less apparent. In addition, tree wounds are not painted with a dressing, as this is a cosmetic practice that does not help the tree. In fact, it has been proven that pruning paint slows the healing process.

If you have any additional questions regarding the tree-trimming program, please contact the Streets & Properties Division of the Public Works Department at 630/391-7230.