City of Kent plans tree removal, sidewalk repairs

Protecting public trees from needless removal has always been a priority for the city of Kent, but buckling sidewalks and old age are forcing the removal of some trees.

Several projects are either in progress or about to get started, according to a city media release.

James Street sidewalk and street tree replacement

In order to provide a safer route for pedestrians, crews are repairing failing portions of the sidewalks on both the north and south sides of James Street between Clark Avenue to 102nd Avenue Southeast. The work requires removal of the existing trees.

According to Public Works Director Tim LaPorte, trees planted decades ago have caused the sidewalks to buckle, posing a tripping hazard to pedestrians.

Were making the sidewalks more usable for walkers," he said. "While we hate to remove the existing trees, theyll be replaced by a type of tree that is less likely to cause sidewalk damage."

City officials expect the work to be finished by late summer 2015.

Meeker Street sidewalk and street tree replacement

After the existing trees are removed, crews will replace the sidewalks, curbs and gutters on the south side of West Meeker Street between Fourth Avenue North and Sixth Avenue North. The work will be complete and trees replaced by the end of December.

Motorists should expect weekday curb lane closures on both James and Meeker Streets between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. Pedestrians should expect sidewalk and crosswalk closures during their removal and replacement; however, access for local residents will be maintained.

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City of Kent plans tree removal, sidewalk repairs