2019-125 DEC Tree BufferDate: June 14, 2019 Report No. 2019-125
INFORMAL STAFF REPORT TO MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL SUBJECT: The purpose of this report is to provide the City Council with information regarding cost associated with the tree buffer that will be planted along the northwest property line of the Denton Energy Center (DEC) tract. BACKGROUND: During the May 21rst City Council meeting a question about the incremental cost of planting additional trees near or in the vicinity of the proposed landscape buffer. The landscape buffer was
a condition of approval for the DME Jim Christal Substation. The buffer consists of a 3’ earthen
berm which meanders along the northwest property line the berm will be lined with 2 rows of oak, cedar elm, and Chinese pistache trees. A total of 116 trees will be planted. On the top of the berm a row of dense shrubs will be planted. The shrubs are Nellie Stevens holly and glossy abelia. A total of 262 shrubs will be planted. When mature the shrubs will provide an effective screen wall,
15’ to 18’ in height. The trees and shrubs will be watered with an automated irrigation system that
will be installed prior to planting. The Jim Christal approved landscaping plan is attached to this report. The total cost of the landscape buffer will be about $92,454.
CONCLUSION: The incremental cost of additional trees in or near the landscaping buffer, is $400 per tree plus a nominal fee to provide irrigation to the additional trees. A landscape architect was consulted, and additional trees could be added to the approved buffer if spaced properly. The proposed irrigation
system could accommodate extra trees. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any additional questions about the Jim Christal landscape buffer.
ATTACHMENT(S): JC Landscape Plan.pdf STAFF CONTACT: Chris Lutrick, DME
(940) 349-7152
Chris.Lutrick@cityofdenton.com