Lexington Co. replacing trees on South Lake Drive

COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO)– New greenery will line the streets of South Lake Drive in Lexington on Saturday.

According to officials with Lexington County, they will begin the process of replacing 16 trees along South Lake Drive on Saturday, May 21, in an effort to provide required clearance for overhead utility lines.

Officials say the existing trees – which include Lacebark Elms, Japanese Zelkova and Live Oaks were planted nearly 15 years.

In order to provide adequate clearance for the overhead utility lines, officials say, anywhere from one-third to one-half of the existing trees’ canopies would need to be removed. This clearance is necessary to facilitate safe work environments for SCE&G utility crews and to maintain reliable service for SCE&G customers.

The trees being considered to replace the existing trees include Chaste-trees, American Fringetrees and Emerald Arborvitaes. Each of these trees will grow to a maximum height of 15 feet and are drought tolerant.

The New tree plantings will be taken care of in the fall or in early winter.