Brevard County Removes 62 Oak Trees in Hammock Trace Due to Sidewalk Safety Concerns
Brevard County officials have removed 62 mature oak trees from the Hammock Trace neighborhood in Viera, Florida. The decision was made because the root systems of these trees had caused sidewalks to buckle, creating unsafe and inaccessible conditions for residents. According to Don Walker, Brevard County’s government communications director, the county explored various alternatives, including consulting with an arborist and offering the homeowners association (HOA) the opportunity to assume liability for the trees. However, the HOA declined this offer, leaving the county to proceed with the tree removal, stating they had 'no other choice' to ensure public safety. Residents, like Gary Colonna, expressed significant upset and concern over the loss of the trees, which were a major draw to the neighborhood and provided considerable shade.
