Title
Discuss and consider action regarding street trees.
Summary
The purpose of this item is to provide the City Council with general information regarding the street tree planning directive received at the last annual work session with the Tree Care Advisory Board. Staff is requesting City Council to provide feedback on locations, evaluation criteria, and funding strategies to assist in implementation efforts.
Background Information
To date, tree planting efforts have been focused mainly in parkland. However, at the September 2009 work session, City Council directed staff to also evaluate street tree planting possibilities.
Current methods of integrating street trees on major and minor arterials and major collectors include the following:
1. Private - During the site development process
2. Public - Capital Improvement Projects
3. Public - Parkland or Street improvements
4. Public/Private Partnerships - License agreements
Staff is currently working together to ensure improved coordination for street tree goals on existing and planned Capital Improvement Projects. Staff recommends that a fixed percentage or minimum requirement be established for street and/or landscape enhancements with all Capital Improvement Projects. Various factors are at play in the prioritization of identified street tree planting opportunities, including but not limited to the proximity of water service, irrigation conduit, maintenance feasibility, proximity of underground and /or overhead utilities, timing of development and capital improvement projects. Streetscape improvement opportunities are not limited to trees, but may include plantings and xeriscaping that enhance the streetscape while not negatively impacting roadway safety.
Proposed Options
Staff has determined the following three locations as preferred based on annexation agreements, the availability of water, a suitable planting medium, and the least cost:
1. West Pflugerville Parkway (former Victoria Station B...
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