New 'utility compatible' trees to be planted along Hulton Road in Oakmont

The Oakmont Shade Tree Commission wants to bring back some green and other colors to Hulton Road.

Duquesne Light recently removed 28 trees from the main thoroughfare so crews could replace an aerial cable.

The company funded the removal and offered to contribute $150 toward replanting each tree.

Borough Manager Harry Dilmore said most of the trees were removed from borough property within the past few weeks, though some were on private land.

The ones removed were in poor structural condition.

“Just doing pruning back isn’t working anymore,” Dilmore said of the tree removal.

Private property owners would have to work out a deal with Duquesne Light if they want to replace trees on their property, Dilmore said.

Hulton Road was reduced to one lane during tree removal with little impact on traffic.

On borough property, commission Chairman Brian Crooks said his group plans to acquire new trees that are no taller than 20 feet and “are utility compatible.”

“We are following industry standard, best-management practices to plant species that will not grow into the wires and later require dramatic cuts for clearance,” Crooks explained. “These species also do not cause sidewalk lifting issues. The new trees will all have attractive spring blossoms and provide a welcoming display along a major entryway into the borough.”

Fourteen trees are scheduled to be planted between Seventh and Thirteenth streets on May 11.

Dilmore said Hulton Road would be reduced to one lane around the area and police would help redirect traffic if necessary.

Varieties include eight red jewel flowering crab apples, four ivory silk tree lilacs and two golden glory cornelian-cherry dogwoods.

“It’s a win for Duquesne Light as they will no longer need to spend resources for utility pruning,” said Crooks, a certified arborist with the International Society of Arboriculture. “It’s a win for Oakmont, as we no longer have trees in poor condition, some of which had structural hazards, and we will plant new, flowering trees.”

Volunteers are needed for the May 11 planting. An official start time was not announced. All tools and safety vests will be provided. A second tree planting is in the works for the fall.

Call the borough office at 412-828-3232 or contact Crooks at 724-840-0330 or email bcrooks86@gmail.com for more information.