Residents urge borough to halt removal of Oakleaf Lane trees; Settlers Walk roads petition raised at public comment

Residents and neighborhood leaders pressed Franklin Park Borough Council on April 16 to reconsider enforcement action that could remove 14 blue spruce trees planted along Oakleaf Lane, arguing the trees have been maintained for decades and provide aesthetic and noise-buffering benefits.

The tree removal order stems from a borough investigation after a complaint that a speed limit sign was blocked, the borough said during the meeting. Borough staff told attendees the trees were planted in the road right of way and that, once a violation is identified, the borough must act.

Mark Jennings, a resident of Oakleaf Lane, said the trees have been maintained by neighborhood groups for 33 years and voiced concern about environmental and community impact. "We're here to address the removal of the trees at the entrance of Oakleaf Lane and in Franklin Park Borough at the intersection of Rees Run Road," Jennings said.

Neighbors described the trees as established landscaping that provides separation and reduces road noise. Bill…