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Board adopts flexible tree‑mitigation approach for Route 44 Crossing, keeps plantings in common areas
Summary
Board and staff debated multiple mitigation options (plant on‑site, require only spruce/pine mitigation, or payment in lieu). The board adopted a hybrid option allowing upsized caliper trees and partial payment to the tree fund, but required mitigation to occur in common areas and be approved prior to final plat or construction.
Board members debated how best to meet a standing tree‑mitigation requirement carried from a 2024 approval. Planning staff presented four options, and the applicant requested Option 4: a combination of planting additional trees on site and contributing to the city tree fund. A board member suggested upsizing caliper requirements (for example, moving from 2‑inch to 3‑inch calipers) to reduce the total number of trees needed while achieving the same mitigation inches.
During Q&A, applicant team members and the civil engineer noted site constraints — including storm drainage and a seepage bed — that limit where trees can be planted. Abby Hahn, civil engineer with Kimley Horn, told the board, “I believe the condition called for an additional 105 trees,” and said the applicant is willing to mix on‑site planting with a fee in lieu. The board’s final motion adopted Option 4 with a clear caveat that additional trees must be placed in common areas rather than private yards, and that the revised plan and any tree‑fund contribution must be approved by staff and a board representative before final plat or construction.
