It has come to my attention that VDOT is attempting to fast track regulations allowing the cutting of larger trees and limbs in its right of way to daylight businesses.

This needs to be stopped as the proposed amended regulations does not take into consideration the public cost versus the private benefit of such pruning and removal. This regulation only looks at the private businesses and does not speak to the public cost such as storm water removal capabilities and air purification as well as other benefits provided by vegetation.

So without a complete cost benefit analysis, that currently does not exist, this regulation should not be fast tracked.

Steve Spence