ISLE OF PALMS, S.C. (WCBD) Almost 300 palmetto trees will be removed from the Isle of Palms for safety from powerlines.
Dominion Energy has identified hundreds of trees to be removed across the island because of their proximity to a power line.
Every five years tree removals are required for ensured use of powerlines around the island. Recently, Dominion Energy removed and trimmed trees from Mount Pleasant and Sullivan’s Island, and now it’s Isle of Palms turn.
“Its a balance between consistency of service and reliability of service versus aesthetics,” said Isle of Palms Mayor Phillip Pounds.
About a third of Isle of Palms powerlines are underground. Dominion Energy identified 292 palmetto trees for removal that will begin November 11th. Trees that will be coming down are currently marked with a red spot.
“Palmetto trees that have grown too close to overgrown lines are both a fire hazard and an issue of employee and public safety,” said Dominion spokesperson Paul Fischer.
The project will take several months but is set to be finished before next year’s hurricane season begins.