Office of the City Manager
Weekly Report – April 24, 2026
City Manager Amy Arrington
Upcoming Tree Removal
at City Hall Park
The City has made the difficult decision to remove five trees at City Hall Park in early May. We recognize that trees are a valued and defining part of Normandy Park’s character, so we want to share more about why this action is necessary and what comes next.
The trees scheduled for removal are five sweetgum trees located in the right-of-way just north of the playground area. Over time, these trees have developed significant structural weaknesses that present a safety risk. In recent years, several large limbs have fallen, and assessments indicate more failures are likely.
These structural issues are largely the result of a past “tree topping” decades ago. When a tree is topped, it often responds by producing multiple fast-growing shoots just below the cut. While these shoots can create the appearance of regrowth, they tend to form weak attachments and can develop into heavy limbs that are more prone to breaking as they mature.
We understand that removing mature trees can feel like a loss. After evaluating alternatives, removal was determined to be the most responsible option to protect public safety in this high-use park.
At the same time, the City remains committed to preserving and enhancing Normandy Park’s tree canopy. Replacement trees will be planted this fall, with species selected in coordination with the Parks Commission to support the long-term health, safety, and diversity of the park.
For those interested in learning more about tree topping and its potential long-term issues, additional information is available in the current edition of City Scene Magazine. The article “How to Select the Right Tree” can be found on page 22.
We appreciate the community’s care and concern for our urban forest, and we will continue working to balance safety with the preservation of the natural environment we all value.
If you have any questions about this or other City topics, please email me at aarrington@normandyparkwa.gov. Have a great week!
“We recognize that trees are a valued and defining part of Normandy Park’s character…“
Amy Arrington, City Manager
City of Normandy Park
801 SW 174th Street
Normandy Park, WA 98166
(206) 248-8246 (Direct Phone)
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