The Village of Huntley has reestablished its tree replacement program for 2023 and beyond. With $50,000 in the FY23 budget the village is anticipating an increase in participation as compared to 2022. There were only nine applications for tree replacements in 2022.
Tim Farrell, Director of Public Works and Engineering for the Village, said that “this program will allow for the planting of approximately 200 2” to 2.5” caliper parkway trees per year.”
In the past the village program would pay 50% of the cost of new parkway trees with a maximum reimbursement of $325. Farrell stated that “To encourage more participation and continue the beneficial expansion of the tree canopy, staff is proposing to revise the Residential Parkway Tree Replacement Program for a onetime cost to a participating resident of $100 per parkway tree.”
He continued to explain the price tag.
“This cost would include staff managing the contract with a landscape contractor who will provide a specific size and species of tree, planting, mulching and warranty for one year,” he said. “Trees will be purchased and planted in bulk quantities of 20 to better control the cost and efficiency of the program.”
There are approximately 17,000 parkway trees in the Village and approximately 3,100 vacant locations where trees can potentially be planted. There are also 134 trees (includes Ash Trees) that were identified during the tree inventory that require removal
The application for a residential parkway tree replacement is available for pick up at the Village Hall, or by mailing the Village or on the Public Works section of the Village website under Documents and Forms.
Option for first and second choice and quantity are on the form. Orders will be taken on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are depleted. The types of trees available are the American Sentry Linden, Bur Oak, Burgundy Belle Maple, Heritage River Birch, New Horizon Elm, Quaking Aspen, State Street Maple, Tulip Tree and White Oak. The trees will cost $100 each. Plantings will occur in the Spring and Fall.
