Update on Landscaping Project for Common Areas

The Board of Directors and the Grounds and Maintenance Committee met Wednesday evening to discuss the results of extensive research into ways we could continue to maintain the beauty of our neighborhood while reducing our water use and saving resources for future generations. 

The Project began many months ago with an exploration of xeriscaping a variety of areas that were common space, while retaining green space.  After meeting with several of the eight contacted Landscaping Companies, it become obvious that we knew far less than they did about what may need to be done to achieve at least a portion of these objectives.  So after beginning with a predetermined Scope of Work developed collaboratively by the Grounds and Maintenance Committee, we began to listen to the Landscapers suggestions.  Also after several quotes were received, it became obvious that we did not have the resources to pursue all of our original objectives at the present time and remain fiscally responsible and prudent.

The final project therefore, became one of simply removing the current plants at the entranceway on Summertree [only those on the north and south sides of the street next to the two houses] and also up Summertree on the north side [along curbside only]. These areas will become Santa Fe brown stone only. Utilizing the existing stone, capping the drip systems, replacing the fabric barrier and filling in any holes created by the shrub removal. In addition the areas up Summertree on the north side of the sidewalk will have the grass [ that has been very difficult to water and has not had any eye appeal for the last several years] will be removed, sprinkler heads capped , a barrier laid, 7/8 inch  Santa Fe Brown stone, 3 inches deep installed, replacing  those grassy areas.  Shrubs and brick work in that area will be retained.  All of the home owners abutting this area have been talked to and we will be working with them to allow them to maintain a full lawn space in front of their yards while offering a brick edging to finish off the project. 

The project was awarded to Milligan Scapes who was the most competitive bidder on the project, while having impeccable references and credentials.  It was a unanimous vote by the board.   

We will achieve some water use reduction from this plan; we will try to pursue rebates from the city and should avoid further fines for water runoff into the streets.  We have also talked with our current maintenance company to ensure the park is properly prepared for spring with aeration and fertilization thus hopefully getting better absorption of our current watering.  We will monitor our usage and meanwhile pursue other avenues that have been suggested by Landscapers, to further reduce our water use in the park while retaining most of its current look.  We will continue to keep the community posted.

The Project is slated to begin on May 18th.

 Although we have been informed that the city that the shrubs being removed are allergen producers and not recommended for planting in the city , we will offer them to any homeowner who may still want them under these conditions for personal use.  You must be present the day of  the project to pick them up at time of their removal.