The government is waiting for a specialist's report on approximately 24 trees along DeCastro Street in Road Town before deciding their fate, Junior Minister Luce Hodge-Smith said on October 21.
An arborist was brought in to grade the trees using an A-to-F system while the sidewalk improvement project was paused following public opposition to their removal. Hodge-Smith said another public consultation will be held once the report is available, and the specialist is expected to present findings to the public.
The Recovery and Development Agency had planned to remove and replace mature Mahogany, White Cedar and Yellow Poui trees as part of an approximately $798,000 sidewalk project. The agency said tree roots had damaged pavement and would be affected during demolition.
Hodge-Smith did not disclose the grades the arborist assigned or confirm whether the trees would be kept. She acknowledged the public concern, saying she understood that people held different views on the matter.
Former Fourth District Representative Mark Vanterpool had called for the work to be paused pending technical evidence and meaningful consultation before any irreversible steps were taken.
Hodge-Smith defended the need for the sidewalk improvements, noting that safer access through the commercial area was important for residents, visitors and cruise ship passengers. She said reports had been received of people rolling off sidewalks into the road, and that the current sidewalks were not safe for people using wheelchairs or mobility devices.
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