City Considers Tree Trimming, Sidewalk Ordinance Changes
At the Nov. 7 City Commission meeting, Pierre Commissioners heard recommendations for adjusting the City’s tree trimming ordinance and changing a small portion of sidewalk ordinance.
Tree Trimming
Current ordinance requires trees hanging over public streets and alleys to be trimmed to at least 12 feet above the driving surface. City staff is asking the ordinance be changed to require the trees to be trimmed to at least 14 feet above the driving surface.
According to Bryan Tipton, City Parks and Recreation Director, the change is needed to accommodate the evolution of vehicles.
“RVs have gotten bigger. Construction equipment has gotten bigger. Emergency response equipment has gotten bigger. At 12 feet, trees are hitting those vehicles when they drive down our streets,” said Tipton. “To prevent damage to both vehicles and the trees, it’s prudent to raise that tree line a couple of feet.”
Tipton added that a 14-foot trimming minimum is common in other South Dakota communities. The recommended change will come back to the commission for further consideration and action next week.
Sidewalk
A private landowner with property abutting both Drycreek Street and Abbey Road is requesting curbside sidewalk in certain sections to avoid challenging topography and a large drainage way. To approve this request, an ordinance change is required.
“There’s a section in city ordinance that dictates how sidewalks along Drycreek and Abbey Road be developed. This change clarifies language and allows the sidewalk to be curbside; it’s far more functional than boulevard sidewalk in these locations,” said Nick Waters, City Engineer.
The recommended ordinance change will come back to the commission for further consideration and action next week.