Radnor Township Shade Tree Commission Meeting - March 25, 2026

The Radnor Township Shade Tree Commission met on March 25, 2026, at 6:30 PM in the Radnorshire Room. The meeting included approval of a consent agenda, review of several grading permits, updates on spring tree planting and the recommended tree list, discussion of the Vision of Wayne plan, and a lengthy discussion regarding unauthorized tree removal at 111 Burnside Road. The commission also elected a new vice president.

Consent Calendar

• Application 216734 - 836 Parkes Run Lane (Patio and Spa): 10 cubic yards of dirt removed, 0 trees removed. Approved.
• Application 216760 - 303 S Wayne Ave (Garage, Pool, and Patio): 120 cubic yards of dirt to remain on site, 0 trees removed. Approved.
• Application 216794 - 515 St Davids Ave (Pool, Patio, and Garage): 50 cubic yards of dirt to remain on site, 0 trees removed. Approved.

Public Comments & Testimony

• Gwyneth Lonergan, representing the Radnor Conservancy, expressed appreciation for the native replanting efforts at the 695 Clyde Road elementary school project, stating, "It's very commendable that so much care was taken."
• A resident (name not given) requested street tree planting on Bellevue Avenue, noting that the east side (near the AT&T building) lacks trees and that AT&T has no objection. The commission agreed to follow up for written approval.

Discussion Items

• 695 Clyde Road – New Elementary School (Ithan Elementary): The project sponsor presented a grading permit for 43,200 cubic yards of dirt to remain on site, 252 trees to be removed. They confirmed 400 replacement trees (including 200 in a reforestation area) and use of tree tubes for deer protection. The commission approved the permit.
• Villanova – County Line and Spring Mill Sidewalk: Kevin McCartney (Collier's Engineering) presented the project, which removes one 11-inch pine tree. The sidewalk will meander between existing trees with tree protection. Approved.
• 1300 Eagle Road – Eastern University Gymnasium and Learning Center: Michael Cosney (Site Engineering) presented the grading permit, removing 46 trees (including heritage trees in the path of the access road). Replacement trees are native species per the final land development plan. Approved.
• 321 E Beechtree Lane – Pool and Addition: Matt (representative) explained this is an amendment to an existing grading permit. They are relocating a proposed sugar maple away from the pool. No trees removed. Approved.
• 701 Camp Woods Road – Addition: Joseph Asak (engineer) and Nick Patag (architect) presented removal of three trees (one 30-inch dead tree, two 15-inch cedars). The commission required a hazardous tree report for the 30-inch tree and approved the permit contingent on that report being submitted.
• 111 Burnside Road – New Dwelling (Guidance Discussion): This was a lengthy discussion. The applicant (T.R. Moser) and owner described a situation where trees were removed without permits. The township arborist, John, identified 8-9 viable trees that were removed by the current owner. The previous owner had also removed trees. The commission discussed the lack of a "look-back period" in the ordinance. After debate, the commission provided guidance that the applicant should return with a plan for 45-50 replacement trees (including 10 large canopy, 35 any type) or pay a fee in lieu. No vote was taken; the applicant will return next month.
• 24 Orchard Lane – House, Pool, Patio, Driveway: Patrick (applicant) presented a grading permit for a new house. The lot had been cleared in 2021 with 18 trees removed, and three replacement trees were required but never planted. The commission approved the permit contingent on either verifying that the three trees were planted or paying the fee in lieu of $300 per tree, and also confirming the hazardous tree report from 2021.
• Spring Bare Root Tree Planting Update: Frank reported that 30 residential trees have been spoken for. Volunteers are needed (11 signed up, 40 desired). Steve Schreiner's company will plant 10-12 trees. The planting date is April 16-17 (tree pickup) and the third weekend of April. The commission discussed coordination and project management.
• Recommended Shade Tree List Update: Matt shared a Google Doc for review; the commission will provide feedback by next month.
• Vision of Wayne Update: Frank attended the second meeting. Trees and parking were major topics. The possibility of planters was discussed but noted as not allowed. The commission will follow up on Bellevue Avenue street trees.

Key Outcomes

• Consent agenda items approved unanimously.
• 695 Clyde Road grading permit approved.
• Villanova sidewalk grading permit approved.
• Eastern University grading permit approved.
• 321 Beechtree Lane grading permit approved.
• 701 Camp Woods Road grading permit approved conditionally (hazardous tree report for 30-inch tree).
• 111 Burnside Road – No vote; applicant to return with a replanting plan for 45-50 trees (including 10 large canopy) or pay fee in lieu.
• 24 Orchard Lane grading permit approved contingent on verifying 2021 tree replacement requirements.
• Vice President elected: Tim Zimmerman was nominated and elected by acclamation.
• Arbor Day Celebration: Noted for Friday, April 24, 2026, with a tree planting organized by the recreation department.
• Hazardous Trees: Removed by residents (4 locations) and by the township (7 locations) were acknowledged.
• Ordinance amendment discussion: The commission agreed to add a "look-back period" to the tree ordinance to prevent future unauthorized clearing. Kristen (new member) will take the lead on drafting.