Shade Tree Removal Public Hearing | March 19, 2025

Public hearing regarding the removal of 91 trees to facilitate the construction of phase three of the Cape Cod Rail Trail (CCRT).

Watch the meeting. AI supported summary below. Corrections welcome; see contact page.

Key Points

• Tree Removal: 91 trees (primarily black oaks, white oaks, and sassafras) will be removed from a 600-700-foot section along Mary Dunn Road to accommodate the CCRT's road layout. The trees are deemed unsafe due to their exposure from prior construction on adjacent MassWildlife property.
• Environmental Concerns: Residents expressed concerns about the environmental impact of removing so many trees, highlighting their role in wind protection, stormwater absorption, noise buffering, and wildlife habitat. Concerns were also raised about the lack of wildlife crossings under the trail.
• Compensatory Mitigation: While some tree planting is planned in the rail trail's parking lot area, the quantity will be significantly less than the number of trees removed. Residents suggested compensatory planting in other town-owned areas within the same watershed.
• Stormwater Management: Questions were raised about the potential for increased stormwater runoff and flooding on Mary Dunn Road due to the tree removal. The town engineer assured that a storm water management system is planned for the parking lot area, and the trail's design will minimize impact on the road.
• Project Timeline: The water main relocation is expected to begin before the end of the month, with completion within a couple of months. The tree removal will follow.
• Public Access to Information: Project plans and updates are available on the Department of Public Works website.