PSE to cut down trees

I am disappointed/concerned/upset/outraged to hear that the city allowed PSE to proceed with this project without completing an EIS (Environmental Impact Study). Removal of 295 trees WILL have an environmental impact, because these trees protect air and water quality, mitigate the effects of storm water runoff, provide habitat for wildlife, and contribute to the beauty of our “City in a Park.”

I am concerned that PSE has not looked at alternative solutions. A thorough examination of alternatives would have been required in the EIS. A variety of solutions are now viable. Maybe we should take a second look at putting the lines underground. Technology like grid batteries would not have been feasible when PSE first conceived this project in 2006. We now have the opportunity to use 21st century technology in support of our neighborhoods and environment.

We don’t know how much this project will cost us or how many power outages might be prevented. An EIS would have helped the community better understand the project. Let’s not shortchange ourselves or our children and grandchildren by taking shortcuts on a project of this magnitude.

Maureen Slagle, Bellevue

Alternatives considered for removing trees?

I am writing with regard to the plans for removal of nearly 300 trees along 148th Avenue, which I strongly disagree with.  I am disappointed to hear that the City of Bellevue allowed PSE to proceed with this project without completing an EIS. Removal of these trees will  have an environmental impact on Bellevue, because they protect air and water quality, mitigate the effects of storm water runoff, provide habitat for wildlife, and contribute to the beauty of the city.

I am concerned that PSE was not required to look at alternative solutions. A thorough examination of alternatives would have been required in the EIS. A variety of solutions are now viable which were not feasible when PSE first conceived this project in 2006.

Please do not allow this project to proceed as currently envisioned.

Diane Fern, Bellevue

Trees

I was saddened today to hear about planned removal of 295 trees to accommodate PSE’s plans to build a new transmission line between the Lake Hills and Phantom Lake substations. 148th is my daily commute route as I drive from South Bellevue to Redmond, and I deeply enjoy its greenery. I lived in Klahanie on the Issaquah Plateau prior to and during the removal of hundreds of trees along Klahanie Blvd. Their offense? They were buckling the sidewalks, creating a “dangerous” walking situation. Once the tree canopy was removed, the street looked so stark and bare. Eventually some trees were replaced, but they were smaller and by design would never regain the height or beauty of the previous trees. Removal of the trees will not only look bad, but also reduce air quality and contribute to global warming. We need to keep as many trees as possible.

Lisa Stratton, Bellevue