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Trustees approve IDOT resolution for Saunders Road improvements; tree removals and replanting scheduled
Summary
Board approved an IDOT resolution to advance the Saunders Road project; staff said the project will use Rebuild Illinois and motor-fuel tax funds to supplement an estimated $3.4 million cost. Tree removals and a hazardous-tree program tied to the project are scheduled in March–April.
The Village of Riverwoods Board of Trustees voted March 4 to approve an Illinois Department of Transportation resolution required to move forward with Saunders Road improvements.
Director of Community Services John Witt told the board the resolution authorizes the village to undertake the project and is a prerequisite for state funding to flow to the village. "This resolution is not in any way, shape or form an approval of a certain amount or not an approval of an expenditure for the project," Witt said, but later clarified the resolution authorizes appropriation from Rebuild Illinois and motor‑fuel tax funds to supplement the project's estimated $3,400,000 cost.
Trustees approved the resolution by roll call. Witt said the funding is available from the state; no dollar appropriation motion was required at the meeting.
Tree removals and replanting: Witt said tree removal along Saunders Road is scheduled to begin March 10 and must conclude by March 31 to avoid impacts on long‑eared bat habitat. He said about 153 trees are scheduled for removal and the project includes planting approximately 70 replacement trees of about seven species to be located along the corridor at the village forester's discretion.
Witt also described a separate Hazardous Tree Program with bids due March 10 and a contract expected at the March 18 meeting. That program covers 426 trees to be pruned or removed (381 on private property, 17 on private-road rights of way, 22 in village road right of way, and two in county right of way). Homeowners can contract directly with the awarded contractor; after a cutoff date the village will perform the work and back‑charge homeowners at unit prices in the contract, Witt said. Notices will be sent to homeowners after award to explain options.
Why it matters: The Saunders Road project ties a major road improvement to ecological timing, public‑works funding and property impacts. Tree removal and replacement plans attempt to balance construction needs and habitat protections; Witt said a village ecologist or forester will place most plantings to address site conditions and lighting or visibility concerns.
Ending: The board approved the IDOT resolution; staff will return with contract awards for the hazardous-tree program and additional construction details at future meetings.
