Vote On Tree Removal To Pave Way For Three Oaks Trail Extension

CRYSTAL LAKE, IL —Tree removal at Three Oaks Recreation Area is needed to make way for two upcoming projects, and the Crystal Lake City Council is expected to vote this week to approve funds to push these projects forward.

Under new state and federal guidelines meant to protect the bat habitat, tree removal projects funded with state and federal dollars must now occur between Nov. 1 and March 30, according to city documents.

With that in mind, city staff has moved forward with soliciting bids for tree removal for the two projects at Three Oaks.

The first project will include the extension of the recreation area's loop trail, which will extend the current east trail to near Rakow Road, according to city documents. Retaining walls will need to be built and designed based on soil conditions as part of that project.

"Trees will need to be removed to provide access to conduct soil borings and other engineering studies," Michael Magnuson, director of public works and engineering, wrote in this week's city council packet.

Engineering studies are expected to get underway this year, and construction of the trail should start in 2025.

A second project aimed at controlling flooding and the water level at Three Oaks following heavy rainfall will require tree removal as well, city staff said.

"The proposed project will include a pump station and storm sewer line to the west. In order to construct the pump station and the storm sewer line an access road is needed from Rakow Road down to the southwest corner of the property," Magnuson wrote in the city council packet.

Trees will need to be removed to make way for the access road and loop trail.

City staff is recommending city councilors approve a contract to Uno Mas Landscaping, Inc., for $15,620 for the tree removal project. The city council is expected to vote Tuesday evening on the measure.