City of Gainesville - File #: 160222.

• File #: 160222.
• Version: 1
• Type: Staff Recommendation
• Status: Passed
• File created: 7/21/2016
• In control: City Manager
• On agenda: 8/4/2016
• Final action: 8/4/2016
• Title: Tree Mitigation Fund Allocation for the NW 1st Avenue Streetscape Project (B)

Date	Ver.	Action By	Action	Result
8/4/2016	1	City Commission	Approved as Recommended	Pass

Title

Tree Mitigation Fund Allocation for the NW 1st Avenue Streetscape Project (B)

Explanation

On May 9th, 2016, the Tree Advisory Board members unanimously voted in favor to support the installation of 51 new street trees and tree related underground infrastructure along NW 1^st Avenue, 1600 to 1900 blocks, and dedicate an amount of $285,000 of Tree Mitigation Fund to that end. The installation of these trees and infrastructure will be part of the NW 1^st Avenue Streetscape project.

The NW 1^st Avenue Streetscape project is a comprehensive CRA effort to improve and transform the Midtown area, focusing on NW 1^st Avenue, between NW 20^th Street and NW 16^th Street. Project benefits include utility upgrades and undergrounding, new sidewalks, parking bays, street lights, improved waste management, and financial incentives to private property owners to support exterior improvements to their buildings and sites. Regular shade street trees will be a key element in this project, highly contributing to an enhanced sense of place and renewed street character.

To ensure healthy tree growth within the existing tight right of way and proximity to underground utilities, proposed tree installation includes an underground Silva Cells system and chemically treated Biobarrier root barriers. Forty-nine new Allee Elms and two Madjool Palm trees were selected to be planted along the four urban blocks to create a durable, dramatic effect and beautiful form. 

Fiscal Note

The total $285,000 will be encumbered via the Tree Mitigation Fund account.

Recommendation

City Manager to City Commission: Approve the Tree Advisory Board recommendation to dedicate an amount of $285,000 of Tree Mitigation Fund to support tree installation and related infrastructure as part of the NW 1^st Avenue Streetscape project.