Morristown Business District Tree Rejuvenation Plan Announced

MORRISTOWN, N.J.– A plan to improve the health of existing trees, remove dead ones and replant new, sustainable species in Morristown's Business District is expected to begin next spring, officials said.

“After all, a shady street, clean air and beautiful sites for pedestrians to walk along, are of the utmost importance to a thriving business district," the Morristown Shade Tree Commission wrote in a statement to business owners.

Here's a look at the plan, according to the township, Shade Tree Commission, Department of Public Works and Morristown Partnership:

• Widen all tree wells to 4-by-6 or 4-by-8 wherever possible to give the tree more breathing/growing space;
• Dead or dying trees will be removed;

• Amend all tree wells: Empty wells will be gutted and replaced with new soil prepared by Richard Wolowicz, the town arborist. All wells will receive a treatment of BioChar – a soil enhancer that holds carbon and makes soil more fertile.

• New trees will be planted.

• Tree wells will be covered with water permeable aggregate and surrounded with fencing as per DOT specifications to prevent compaction of soil, which suffocates the tree.

The proposed street schedule:

• South Street, Spring 2017
• Speedwell Avenue, Fall 2017
• Morris Street, Spring 2018
• Elm Street, Fall 2018

For more information, email shadetree@townofmorristown.org.

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