Beringer seeks removal of 2 elms

ST. HELENA Beringer Vineyards and the St. Helena Tree Committee are asking for the publics input on possibly removing two trees from the Highway 29 elm tunnel for safety reasons.

The two trees closest to the Beringer driveway make it hard for drivers leaving the property to see traffic, whether theyre turning right or left, said Debra Dommen, vice president of government and community relations for Treasury Wine Estates, which owns Beringer.

When you exit Beringer, youre practically halfway in the street before you can see traffic coming southbound, Dommen told the Tree Committee last Thursday. There have been numerous accidents.

Beringer is committed to the elm tunnel, which is part of our story, Dommen said. We love the trees, but this is about safety, she said.

Members of the Tree Committee stressed that no decisions have been made. They urged the public to provide feedback about the idea at the committees March 12 meeting, scheduled for 3:30 p.m. at City Hall.

Committee chairwoman Susann Ortega said the State Historic Preservation Office and Rep. Mike Thompson, D-St. Helena, should be consulted. Thompson has previously helped the city, Beringer, Caltrans and other state officials broker deals involving maintenance of the tunnel.

Ortega said the speed of traffic contributes to the problem. The speed limit changes from 45 mph north of the tunnel to 35 mph, which is still way too fast, she said.

Committee members Edie Kausch and Kacey Stotesbery said its too early to make any decisions, but the issue is worth exploring.

City arborist Jim Haller said the two trees nearest the Beringer driveway are in good health, but he agreed they pose a safety hazard.

When Im trying to pull out of there, the front of my truck is sticking out in traffic and Im leaning out the window trying to see, Haller said. It is a hazard.

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Beringer seeks removal of 2 elms