The two Siberian Elm trees which now tower over town hall will soon be cut down due to potential safety concern. First Selectman Rudy Marconi says, “The liability is greater than the assets - unfortunately.” The trees are set to come down at the end of July, after Ridgefield’s annual SummerFest.
The removal of these 100-year-old trees is one of many refurbishments that will take place to improve Town Hall this summer. Other enhancements include repairs to the front steps, waterproofing of the foundation, and the reconstruction of the brick wall. This restoration is made possible by a $175,000 Small Town Economic Assistance Program Grant, otherwise known as a STEAP grant.
Concerning the trees’ successors, Marconi says they will likely not be Siberian Elms but assures “We will be replacing the trees with as large a caliber tree as we possibly can.” Marconi adds, “They [Siberian Elms] are not considered to be great trees.” The selection of the next trees is currently under review by the Ridgefield Tree Warden Department, led by Tree Warden, John Pinchbeck.
But with all this Town Hall restoration, what about Ridgefield’s signature monumental American Flag presently anchored to the elm trees? While the flag will see a shorter season this year to allow for the restorations, Marconi assures that the Town is prepared with several plans to assure the flag will return to its rightful place, in the heart of downtown Ridgefield. “This year the flag will be taken down after Summerfest,” says Marconi.