Shaker Heights, Ohio Development News

Loman Linfield SSO Project Update: Dewatering Wells, Tree Removal Concerns Addressed, and EPA Review

The City Council received an update on the Loman Linfield SSO project, detailing preparatory work for the installation of dewatering wells. The project faced delays due to utility marking by OOPS, but drilling is expected to commence next week. Discussions also addressed concerns about tree removal, with an assessment from ODNR confirming the health decline of several oak trees and the potential risk of oak wilt if not removed. The project's primary driver was identified as constructability and cost-effectiveness, though not solely cost-driven. The city is continuing to provide updates through an FAQ section to ensure consistent resident information. Residents also inquired about precautions taken regarding utility safety, referencing an incident in Twinsburg, and were assured that state laws are being followed, including potholing to locate gas mains and a delay until OOPS tickets are cleared. The environmental impact of removing nine oak trees was weighed against the project's benefits in eliminating raw sewage overflows and basement backups, which is considered a health and safety issue that outweighs the tree removal. A bat survey is required before tree removal due to ODNR and U.S. Fish and Wildlife guidelines, with a strict timeframe for removal post-survey. The project timeline includes dewatering (3-4 weeks), tree removal (approx. 1 day per tree), sewer installation (12 weeks), and restoration (4-6 weeks). The project is also undergoing review for its CADEX application with the US EPA to ensure compliance.