Vernon to cut down trees for peanut pool revamp

The City of Vernon will have to cut down several trees in a local park before it can build a wading pool, removing plenty of natural shade residents wanted to remain.

The City had hoped such extensive changes wouldn't be required and that most trees could be saved, but said when work get underway Friday, Aug. 19, many of the tree will have to go.

"The large, aging elm trees in Lakeview Park have been in decline for many years. The trees around the pool will be removed during the construction project as they have shed large, heavy branches during recent storms," City of Vernon parks and public spaces spokesperson Kendra Kryszak said in a media release. "Public safety takes priority when making these decisions."

Currently, around half a dozen trees surround the pool and it's not clear which will be cut down.

The 64-year-old Lakeview Wading Pool, more commonly known as the peanut pool, is set for a $2.57-million revamp.

According to a City of Vernon media release, the project had hoped to limit cutting down the trees, however, an arborist and geotechnical report ultimately determined that excavation and construction will damage the tree roots and weaken the tree structure.

"Through the public engagement process for this revitalization project, we learned that shade trees are very important to our park users," Aquatics Manager Gary Lefebvre said. "Therefore, the project team is committed to ensuring there are plenty of trees planted that will provide shade for future users of this cherished park space."

The media release does not give an estimated date when the project will be complete.

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