Tree Removal - 480, 496 and 516 Richmond Street West

(Downtown)

 The Toronto Community Council recommends the adoption of the following report (April 3, 1998) from the Director of Development and Support, Toronto Parks and Recreation:

 Purpose:

 An application has been received from Mr. David Jackson, Jackson Planning Consultants Ltd., 520 Richmond Street West, Toronto, Ontario, M5V 1Y2, for City Council to consider removal of a City owned tree.

 Recommendation:

 That:

 (1)the applicant submit payment for the value of the linden, removal and replacement costs, a total of $1,758.75; and

 (2)the applicant being required to plant 17 new trees in turf on Richmond Street West and Augusta Avenue City street allowances upon completion of the project in accordance with Landscape Plan L1 prepared by James Goad Architect, date stamped March 20, 1998 by Urban Development Services.

 Comments:

 Mr. Jackson reports that the tree is in direct conflict with a proposed vehicular entrance into an underground garage. The request forms part of a Site Plan Approval application filed with Urban Development Services for the purpose of facilitating construction of a six storey building with underground parking.

The tree in question is a 30 cm diameter linden which is located on the Augusta Avenue flankage. The tree stands in good condition and is valued at $890.37. Tree removal costs are $392.76 and tree replacement costs in turf are $475.62, for a total of $1,758.75.

 The applicant proposes to plant 17 new >Autumn Blaze= Freeman maple in turf on Richmond Street West and Augusta Avenue as part of the landscape improvements associated with this project. The planting of these new trees will enhance the streetscape in this area and be a major improvement over the existing conditions. I therefore recommend approval for removal of this tree subject to conditions set out in this report.