Small design changes could save the tree and build the same amount of housing and parking, but SDCI won’t ask for them.

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A giant sequoia — the hallmark tree of the Sequoia National Forest — is about to be removed in the east Green Lake neighborhood. True to its name, this tree is 63” in diameter, and is one of only about 200 mature giant sequoias left in Seattle’s neighborhoods. But its size and rarity isn’t stopping SDCI from fast-tracking its removal through their inadequate policies and enforcement.

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Seattle’s new tree ordinance allows all trees to be removed for development. This table taken directly from Seattle’s new tree ordinance shows the difference between tree protection for homeowners versus when construction is proposed:

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Simple design changes could save the Green Lake Giant Sequoia, with no loss of housing or parking.

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The existing single family home will be demolished and replaced with a larger single family home. The current plan shows a long driveway running through the Giant Sequoia, with wasted space on either side. Our architect’s analysis shows that small changes will not only save the Giant Sequoia, but using land more efficiently could save most of the other large trees. 

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Here’s the current site plan for this large (5,400 square foot) lot:

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Here’s our architect’s version. Moving the driveway, locating the garage within the larger structure, and shifting the home further back on the lot results in the same amount of living space and parking, and saves the Giant Sequoia and many other trees.

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