City removes cottonwoods at park

DAVENPORT - The City of Davenport has begun removing a stand of historic cottonwood trees at the city park after one fell and damaged a vehicle, with city officials citing ongoing safety risks from the aging and diseased trees.

The cottonwoods, planted in 1918, had stood for more than a century along the edge of Davenport Park located on the corner of 5th and Park St. adjacent to the pool. Recently, one of the trees fell and struck a pickup truck, prompting city leaders to have the remaining trees professionally evaluated. An arborist determined that the trees were diseased and rotting, recommending their removal to prevent future incidents.

City Administrator Steve Goemmel presented the findings to the City Council during its June 10 meeting. He said the city obtained bids for the work, and Royal Tree Service was selected as the lowest responsible bidder.

Council members approved Resolution 2026-11 authorizing the removal. Patrick Katz made the motion, which was seconded by Cory Hollis. The measure passed without opposition.

The trees were located near the park boundary and had long been part of the city's landscape. Their removal marks the end of a longstanding feature in the park, but city officials said public safety was the top priority.

Crews from Royal Tree Service began the work in recent weeks. The city expects the project to be completed soon, with the area to be cleared and prepared for future park improvements.

The decision comes as the city continues to address maintenance and safety issues at public facilities. No other trees in the park were identified for removal at this time