Council adopts Duval street-tree list; staff to create installation guidance and outreach

The Duval City Council approved a new street-tree list during the March 18 meeting, adopting a staff-prepared list of street‑tree species and directing staff to prepare installation standards and community outreach materials.

Laura Thomas, director of community development, presented the list as the culmination of grant‑funded work and consultant assistance. Staff said the list groups trees by size class (small, medium, large), growth habit and adaptation to neighborhood microclimates; it is intended to reduce future maintenance problems, avoid conflicts with utilities and improve long‑term survival of street trees.

Public‑works staff explained the list was developed with attention to root‑control measures, soil amendments and sight‑distance considerations. The presentation noted earlier plantings in some neighborhoods used species that proved poorly suited to narrow planting strips or caused surface root heaving; the adopted list aims to avoid those outcomes.

Council moved and seconded adoption of the street-tree list. The motion was approved by voice vote; the meeting record shows the mayor called for ayes and nays and declared the motion passed. Following adoption, staff said they would update the city’s tree‑installation details, prepare an HOA and homeowner FAQ, explore a “trees for neighborhoods” program, and produce a street‑tree manual to guide choices and maintenance.

The approval is an administrative code and practice change; the council did not amend development code in this action. Staff will return with specifics for implementation and any capital budget requests for phased sign or planting programs.