Safety Behind Department Decision

Safety is the reason behind a decision by the Department of Transportation and Public Works to remove a stand of mature poplar trees in Big Pond.

Department officials confirmed today that the trees, which are located on department right-of-way, must be removed as part of plans to upgrade Trunk 4 through the area.

Current safety design standards do not allow for trees to be as close to the paved road as these are, because they create an impact hazard for drivers. In addition, the trees restrict visibility at the intersection of Loch Lomond Road and Trunk 4, and widening the road brings it up to safety standards in place for nearby sections of Trunk 4. A six kilometre section was upgraded in 1999.

"We've investigated every avenue that might bring us to a different conclusion here," said district director Bruce Fitzner. "But our priority must be safety."

Studies by Horticultural Services, an independent company, the Department of Natural Resources, and experts at the Nova Scotia Agricultural College show that the trees are approaching over- maturity. These studies suggest the trees will increasingly become more prone to disease and breakage, adding a further hazard.

In an effort to save the stand of poplars, the department investigated a number of alternatives, including the possibility of moving the road alignment to accommodate the trees. Mr. Fitzner said today that the physical requirements and costs of such a move make it impossible.

Work to remove the trees will be carried out in the coming weeks.