Bill > B26-0320

This bill temporarily amends the Urban Forest Preservation Act of 2002 to create a specific exception for Heritage Tree removal as part of the Long Bridge Project. Under the proposed amendment, the Mayor must issue a Heritage Tree removal permit if certain conditions are met: there is no reasonable design alternative that can avoid the tree's location, the Urban Forestry Division determines the tree cannot be reasonably protected in place, the applicant demonstrates that tree relocation would either cost over $1 million or cause an undue public burden, and the applicant agrees to pay $1,200 for each inch of the tree's circumference. The bill is specifically tied to the Long Bridge Project managed by the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority and is temporary, set to expire 225 days after taking effect. This targeted amendment provides a pathway for tree removal in the context of a specific infrastructure project while still requiring financial compensation for the removal of significant urban trees.

https://lims.dccouncil.gov/Legislation/B26-0320