Council backs trimming plan for downtown trees, notes MnDOT ownership limits

Public works staff presented options for managing downtown planter‑bed trees after mixed feedback from business owners. Staff outlined three practical approaches — light trimming of lower limbs, side pruning for trees that intrude on storefront visibility, and removal and replacement with smaller canopy species — and recommended a combined approach of trimming and selective side pruning while engaging MnDOT on longer‑term solutions.

The presentation noted there are roughly 40 trees on the eastbound corridor and significantly fewer on the westbound side, and staff highlighted locations where lower limbs are blocking signs. Business owners and council members voiced split preferences: some appreciate the downtown tree canopy and aesthetic, others want clear storefront visibility and worry about safety and property impacts. Staff reiterated that MnDOT considers the trees its asset and restricts wholesale removals, which limits immediate replacement options. Council gave direction to proceed with trimming and to fold tree‑management decisions into an overall downtown beautification/master plan.