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Residents warn tree removal and ADA obligations would add costs if Westgate opened
Summary
Speakers told the committee that removing trees and installing ADA‑compliant sidewalks/ramps could add permitting and replacement costs to any Westgate‑Champion Court opening; staff did not dispute permitting needs but did not provide a permit analysis at the meeting.
Residents told the committee that connecting Westgate Drive to Champion Court could force tree removals and require ADA sidewalk and curb‑ramp work that would add cost and process steps.
"Under chapter 11 68.06(c) of Delaware's codified ordinances, these trees cannot be removed without a permit and a tree replacement plan," said Abby Buckerfield (17 Westgate Drive). She also said ADA‑compliant sidewalk segments and curb ramps would be required and were not accounted for in the project's framing. City staff acknowledged there are permitting and engineering considerations but did not provide a formal permitting cost estimate during the meeting.
The committee did not take action on the permitting question; staff said they would consider alternatives and noted the right‑of‑way had been platted historically to Champion Court, but specific arborist or ADA cost assessments were not included in the materials provided that night.
