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Parks and urban forestry updates: trail work, Arbor Day plans and tree replacements after Circle K site clearing
Summary
Commissioners and parks representatives reported progress on a trail bridge project, plans to update the city street‑tree list and to coordinate required replacements where parking‑lot trees died; the Circle K site loss of mature trees and a denied signage appeal drew discussion.
The Yelm Planning Commission heard subcommittee reports on parks projects and urban forestry on Sept. 16, including progress on a trail bridge, plans for Arbor Day and tree‑replacement requirements for commercial properties where required landscaping has died.
A parks subcommittee member said the trail project to connect Clontz and the Squali Bridal crossing is under construction with prefabricated concrete panels and security rails; an opening day was anticipated in October or early November, pending completion and tribal and river council input.
Parks and tree‑board updates Commission members and staff described work to update the city’s street‑tree list and a five‑year strategic plan for urban forestry maintenance and renewal. The update will consider new pests and diseases and changes to recommended species; staff said alder currently present a problem in some locations.
“We’re wanting to update that,” a parks representative said about the street‑tree list; the commission discussed root‑barrier and species choices to limit future sidewalk and driveway damage.
Commercial landscaping and sign code Commissioners raised the recent removal of large trees at a Circle K site and asked whether replacement requirements apply. Staff explained that required parking‑lot and perimeter trees that have died are violations of land‑use approvals and the property owners (Circle K and an adjacent Jack in the Box and Safeway were cited in discussion) are required to replace required trees during planting season.
The commission also discussed a recent sign‑code appeal by Circle K seeking a second monument sign for a corner property; commissioners said the appeal was denied and staff recounted the option the applicant had to use canopy signage or design the site to allow a corner monument sign at site planning stage.
Arbor Day and volunteer work Tree‑board volunteers and staff said they will expand Arbor Day activities and work with schools. The board plans a renewed focus on education, replacement planting, and updating maintenance and selection practices in response to pests and species performance.
What’s next Staff said they are coordinating with property owners on required replacements, will bring street‑tree list updates and the parks master‑plan timeline back to the commission and expect to present draft master‑plan materials for public review in spring 2026.
