(Washington, DC) The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) is launching a citywide tree removal program by targeting 700 dead, diseased or problematic public trees between the curb and the sidewalk which are the responsibility of the District government. A certified arborist, under instructions to avoid removal if at all possible, has examined each of these trees. This first phase of DDOT's tree removal program will begin to tackle the backlog of 2,400 trees.
DDOT recognizes the key role trees play in enhancing the city's streets and communities and quality of life for residents and visitors and how important each tree can be. Trees improve air quality, reduce runoff and flooding, moderate temperatures and provide more pleasing surroundings. Therefore, before we proceed, we notify the affected Advisory Neighborhood Commission and the immediate neighbors with a door hanger, and a follow-up letter. "No parking" signs are posted 72-hours before work actually starts. Only trees marked with a large white dot are removed. The list is also posted on the DDOT web site.
Currently, there are 114,000 live street trees in the city. To achieve DDOT's sustainable goal of 150,000 healthy street trees, the department has planted 10,000 trees and removed 5,000 dead or problematic trees over the past three years. Regular plantings and removals are part of any successful urban tree program.