PARK CITY, Utah — The Park City School District has undertaken the removal of numerous mature trees at Dozier Field as part of a construction initiative at Park City High School. Community members have expressed concerns regarding the extent of the tree removal, stating that it was not adequately communicated and significantly alters a cherished neighborhood area. On December 19, the district communicated with the community, explaining that the tree removal was essential for the project, citing issues related to tree health, safety considerations, and site grading requirements for the upcoming construction. Officials from the district noted that many of the trees were in poor condition and had potential long-term maintenance challenges. They also indicated that the dense vegetation created security blind spots that needed to be resolved to ensure safety during school events and athletic activities. The district stated, "To accommodate the new structures, the site requires regrading. Unfortunately, these changes to the existing ground elevations made it infeasible to preserve the existing root system." In addition, the district plans to implement new, sustainable landscaping once the construction is completed. Community members have voiced that the number of trees removed exceeded their expectations. Resident Todd Coleman noted that the district is taking down many trees at Dozier Field, including some that he estimates to be over 50 years old. Coleman mentioned in an email that the trees being removed are not in proximity to the construction area, and he believes the community had previously expressed a desire to preserve as many trees as possible. Coleman highlighted that the trees served as a buffer for nearby neighborhoods, mitigating noise and light pollution, and were a key characteristic of the field. He raised his concerns at a recent school board meeting but reported that additional trees were removed shortly thereafter. This tree removal occurs during an investigation by the Utah Department of Environmental Quality, following an incident where 500,000 gallons of lead and arsenic contaminated water were discharged into a creek near the Treasure Mountain Junior High School site. This incident has led to increased scrutiny of district construction projects, with residents calling for improved communication and advance notice on changes affecting shared community spaces. The district has not disclosed the exact number of trees removed or whether alternatives to complete removal were considered. They reiterated that replanting efforts will take place after the construction is finished.