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Public works outlines downtown redwood root work; Boyle Park master plan scheduled for special meeting
Summary
Public Works described a downtown redwood root and pruning program that will use air‑spade soil work and temporary fencing to protect root zones; Arts & Rec staff said a special meeting is planned Feb. 23 to review the Boyle Park master plan and priority projects will be tracked beginning in March.
Public Works staff presented a root maintenance and canopy‑management plan for redwood trees at Litton Square and Redwood Depot Plaza that aims to improve root health, reduce risk of failure and protect the trees’ long‑term vigor.
The project includes localized air‑spade soil removal around roots, introduction of mulch and soil amendments, and targeted canopy reduction of up to roughly 10% of live limbs of specified diameters to reduce storm damage risk. Staff said the onsite work would take two days and that fencing should remain in place for one to two months to prevent soil compaction while the treatment takes hold. Staff also noted plans to install more visible covers on erosion controls and signage for the fenced areas so the public can avoid the zones during recovery.
Director Ashley Howe provided a priority projects update: the Boyle Park master plan will be the subject of a special commission meeting on Monday, Feb. 23, to review the final recommendation and draft staff report (pending contractor draft). Howe also previewed the 2026 priorities — completing Boyle Park master plan, investigating sites for a sanctioned bike amenity, and expanding teen engagement — and said the commission will receive a new progress matrix in March.
Commissioners asked whether Depot Plaza events would be impacted; staff said no known event conflicts and noted they can adjust timing if necessary. The commission requested that the recreation director assist with community outreach explaining the temporary closures and the purpose of the work.
Next steps: Public Works to start work in late February/early March, post signage and fencing, and coordinate notices with Recreation staff and event organizers. The Boyle Park master plan will be discussed at the Feb. 23 special meeting and again in March as part of the 2026 project tracking.
