In their announcement regarding the move, the municipality said cutting them down was not taken lightly and they recognized their removal is not easy to see. Those with long ties to the community will remember that group of trees as a sort of hideaway, particularly during summer nights and/or during times like the Turtle Derby or summer fair. This was especially true before the expansion of the new development and the construction of Anderson Drive.

The work on Anderson is part of a larger move to rebuild streets in Boissevain as a part of the 2025 commitment from the province through the GRO Funding Program. The Growth and Renewal Opportunities (GRO) Program for Municipalities would fund up to 50% of infrastructure work under certain headings, with roads being one. Boissevain-Morton received $750,000 under GRO.

Other areas under GRO included the Caranton Road from Anderson Drive to the Busy B, which is in need of repair.

This is year two of the three-year plan. Swanson said work would continue in the northwest area of town. It is likely Caranton and Anderson Drive North will not be paved until 2027 when everything would be ready for the companies to come and do all of the rebuilt streets at the same time.

As for the trees, the head of council said they would be replaced. It will take time to develop a plan and get new ones planted, especially with the roadwork having to take priority.

“The new road will be wider and be able to support more traffic, the road the people in the new development need and deserve,” Swanson stated. “It won’t look as nice for a while, but we will definitely be planting new trees.”

“The trees there have definitely served a purpose. They will be replaced with new ones.”

by PAUL RAYNER, Recorder staff