Tree Removal Ahead of Project Start

At this time, plans are being finalized for major underground infrastructure upgrades at the intersection of Main/Vancouver/Chestnut Streets. This project involves crucial upgrades needed to replace old water and sewer lines. A great deal of patchwork has been completed in this area over the years to keep these lines open and functioning, but patchwork is no longer an option. Before more serious issues arise, the decision was made to remove and replace the old pipes, and give the intersection a complete makeover in the process.

Work is set to begin this spring. As part of an early phase of work to prepare for excavation in the area, three town-owned trees will soon be removed. Two of the trees are located on the west side of Main Street directly in front of the Yarmouth Professional Centre, the third is on the south side of Chestnut Street at the intersection.

Why are the trees being taken down?

Exploratory work of the underground has determined that much of the root systems of these large trees lie within the excavation area beneath Main and Chestnut Streets. When these areas are excavated to remove the old infrastructure, the roots must be removed as well. Removing the roots compromises the trees, making them unstable and a serious threat for falling over during storms or high winds. Therefore, the very difficult decision has been made to remove them ahead of the project start.

These trees, like so many others throughout town, are beautiful assets to our community. No one wants to see them come down. However, when planted in these locations that tie into surrounding infrastructure - when that underground infrastructure is removed and replaced, often so are the trees.

Will there be a disruption in traffic at the intersection during removal?

Yes, lane closures will need to occur for safety as these are very tall trees. More details will be revealed shortly on detours and lane closures, as well as expected timeframes.