Collingwood, ON [04 November 2025] – The Town recognizes the vital role trees play in the health and character of the community. Trees enhance neighbourhood beauty, provide shade, improve air quality, and contribute to overall well-being. The Town has heard residents’ concerns about the trees affected by the upcoming Sixth Street and Hurontario Street Infrastructure Project and wishes to reassure the community that protecting and enhancing the urban forest remains a key priority. A comprehensive plan is in place to replace and expand tree coverage as part of this project and into the future.
“We’ve heard our community’s strong commitment to protecting and expanding our tree canopy,” says Mayor Hamlin. “This project is an opportunity not just to renew essential infrastructure, but to reinvest in a greener, healthier, and more beautiful town for generations to come.”
On Monday evening, the Director of Infrastructure, Mohammed Alkoka, provided Council with an update on this significant project, which will replace aging underground infrastructure and improve water supply and pressure to the Town’s west side. The project will also include upgrades such as new sidewalks, curbs, and cycle tracks to improve active transportation, safety and accessibility for everyone.
Unfortunately, to complete this essential work, 40 trees along the corridor will need to be removed. Some of these trees are already in poor condition, but we know the loss of any tree can feel significant.
To demonstrate our ongoing commitment to a greener and healthier community, the Town will be replacing trees at a 3-to-1 ratio, meaning 120 new trees will be planted once the project is complete.
“We know how much people value the trees in this area, and we do too,” says Director Alkoka. “We’ve taken great care to plan for the long term and ensure that this project leaves behind a stronger, more resilient tree canopy.”
What’s Being Done to Protect and Restore Trees
- Three new trees for every one removed: A total of 120 new trees will be planted, demonstrating our commitment to environmental sustainability.
- Healthy and sustainable plantings: New trees will be 50mm in diameter, the size with the highest survival rate. These will come with a three-year warranty to ensure they thrive.
- Thoughtful timing: Tree removals are planned for early 2026, outside of bird nesting season, and new trees will be planted in spring 2028 at the end of construction.
- Creative replanting options: Forty (40) trees will be planted along the project area, while the remaining eighty (80) will be offered to nearby property owners or planted on adjacent streets and parks such as Fifth Street, Seventh Street, Walnut Street Park, and Kinsmen Park.
The Town has also applied for funding through the Growing Canada’s Community Canopy program to help support this critical replanting initiative.
For more details on the project and updates as it progresses, please visit the project page at: engage.collingwood.ca/sixth-street-reconstruction.
