Update on multiple tree removal on N. Meramec

For those of you who also noticed the sudden removal of all curbside trees on N. Meramec last week...here is an emailed response today from John Wulf, Clayton's Acting Director of Public Works:

"This is part of an AmerenUE Power-On project. Ameren had removed the Bradford Pear trees along the west side of the 300 block of N. Meramec. Although their flowers are attractive in the spring, they are a soft wood tree and have a great tendency to split in high winds. This was evident in this case by the fact that at least a third of the trees were split. And earlier this spring we had one on Maryland fall over into the street during a storm. These trees also grow quickly and are inappropriate for planting under power lines due to the significant trimming required that affects their aesthetics. As a result, these trees are not on the City Forestry’s approved list of street trees as outlined in our ordinance.

With all this being said, the Public Works Department will be replanting this area with City-approved, under story, street trees in the spring. Per the Public Works Department policy, we will survey the head of the condo associations to determine which City approved under story tree they would like planted in front of each building.

I do believe that Public Works replanting the area with a more appropriate tree selection will provide a more pleasing streetscape over time, and eliminate the ongoing trimming and associated electrical service issues as well as safety concerns. I hope this information is helpful. Please let me know if you have any further questions."


John E. Wulf, P.E.
Acting Director of Public Works/City Engineer