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Board continues Sixteenth Street tree removals after heated public comment, seeks funding and species clarification
Summary
The Board of Appeals continued an appeal over Public Works’ decision to remove two large ficus trees on Sixteenth Street to Feb. 20 so Urban Forestry can supply clearer information on funding, replacement species/size and schedule; speakers cited safety concerns and a larger streetscape project proposing up to 61 removals.
After lengthy public testimony on Feb. 6, the Board of Appeals voted to continue an appeal brought by Richard Hall challenging Public Works’ order to remove two large ficus trees outside the Redstone Building on Sixteenth Street.
Urban forester Chris Buck presented photos and an arborist evaluation showing co‑dominant stems, included bark and past limb failures; he said both trees meet Public Works’ removal criteria for ficus. Buck acknowledged the trees provide substantial canopy benefits but argued structural defects present significant public‑safety risks. He proposed removing the two trees and replanting up to three new trees in the immediate area where feasible.
Community speakers, including Larissa Pedroncelli of United to Save the Mission and tenants of the Redstone Building, urged the board to delay action and insisted the removals be considered in context of the SFMTA Sixteenth Street streetscape project, which Public Works estimates could propose up to 61 removals along the corridor. They pressed for stronger community outreach, larger replacement stock (4–5‑foot boxes suggested), an explicit funding commitment and for mitigation such as heavy pruning as an interim step.
Vice President Rick Swig moved to continue the matter to Feb. 20 for Public Works to provide specific documentation on funding, replacement tree size/species and a timetable for replanting. The motion carried on a vote of the commissioners present. The board encouraged the bureau to coordinate with SFMTA and to provide clear replacement assurances and timelines before removal proceeds.
