Community
Highway 299 in Weaverville California receives three new trees.
Caltrans planted three replacement trees along Highway 299 in Weaverville after hazardous trees were removed. Residents chose Tupelo Wildfire trees in a public survey.
Three new trees have been planted along Highway 299 in Weaverville, California, after Caltrans District 2 removed older trees that had been determined to pose a safety hazard.
Caltrans says its Weaverville Maintenance and Stormwater Crew recently planted the replacements along Main Street, which is also State Route 299. An arborist with the agency had evaluated the original trees and determined they could no longer safely remain in place.
The community had a voice in what would take their place. Through a public survey, residents were invited to weigh in on replacement trees, with the Tupelo Wildfire tree receiving 89% of the votes.
Before the planting, crews took an additional precaution below ground. They used a Vactor truck to carefully excavate the planting holes and check for underground infrastructure that could be damaged during the work.
No existing utilities or other facilities were encountered, according to Caltrans. The agency said using specialized equipment helped make the excavation safer and reduced the risk of accidental damage.
The project brings three new trees to Main Street, giving the replacements an opportunity to grow as part of the Weaverville community for years to come.