Background
In 2014, DeKalb County planted trees in the Moreland Avenue median between Bailey Street and I-285. Overtime, the trees fell into poor condition from age and lack of maintenance. MSCID is working to remove and replace these trees and launch a maintenance program for their continued care.
MSCID has also requested the addition of new trees where they did not previously exist.
During the new trees’ warranty period, DeKalb County would fund tree pruning, maintenance and watering through their tree reforestation program and a potential partnership with Trees Atlanta. After the warranty expires, MSCID will bear the responsibility of pruning, watering and replacement.
Tree selection has not been finalized, but DeKalb County and MSCID will choose from a short list of fast-growing “street trees” that thrive in harsh urban environments and full sun.
Tress being considered include:
- Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis)
- American Elm (‘Princeton’)
- Sourwood (Oxydendrum arboretum)
- Zelkova (Zelkova serrata – non-native)
Russell Landscaping has agreed to perform the work of replacement and replanting. DeKalb County has agreed to the removal and replacement of existing trees. Other scope and cost details are under discussion.
Timeline
January 2022: The DeKalb County Planning & Sustainability Department, through the communication of MSCID and Deputy Director Cunningham and Coordinator Teachout and Arborist Curtis, agreed to partner with MSCID to remove and replace the trees in this area.
June 2022: MSCID and DeKalb County are discussing the terms of the tree warranty length as well as the final amount and species of trees to be planted in this project.
