Trees and shrubs along roads serve important purposes: They provide privacy and protection from glare, stabilize embankments, and serve as habitats, nesting sites, or navigation aids for numerous animal species. To ensure these functions are preserved in the long term, the vegetation along the approximately 700-kilometer-long road network in the county must be regularly maintained.
To ensure that traffic signs, road signs, and intersections remain clearly visible
Measures include, among other things, trimming back branches and shrubs so that traffic signs, road signs, and intersections remain clearly visible at all times and there is sufficient clearance above the roadway and along the roadside. In addition, structures such as bridges and retaining walls are cleared of overgrown vegetation so that necessary inspections can be conducted.
Another priority is the rejuvenation of older hedges. In this process, pre-determined sections up to 50 meters in length are cut back close to the ground. The hedges will sprout again in the following years and develop into denser and more stable stands. By treating the areas in sections, sufficient refuge areas for insects and small animals are preserved. Valuable individual trees within the hedgerows are spared and specifically preserved. This results in ecologically valuable stands of mature trees over the long term, which not only shape the landscape but can also be better adapted to the challenges of climate change.
Ash dieback and sooty bark disease weaken trees
In addition to hedge maintenance, severely damaged or unstable individual trees are also removed. Climate change is increasingly taking its toll on street trees. Prolonged dry spells and diseases such as ash dieback or sooty bark disease are causing more and more trees to become weakened and potentially pose a safety risk. The early removal of such trees is necessary to ensure the safety of all road users.
Aerial work platforms and specialized equipment are used for some of the work. As a result, temporary lane narrowings or half-lane closures are necessary. Depending on the situation on-site, traffic will be regulated by construction zone traffic lights.
Work Focuses on Federal Highways
This year’s tree and shrub maintenance work is focused on federal highways B10, B27, and B295. The Ludwigsburg District Office asks all road users for their understanding regarding these temporary disruptions.
